Travelling abroad can be a thrilling experience, but the process of obtaining a visa can be an exhausting task. However, numerous countries offer visa-free entry to citizens of various nations, making it easier than ever to explore new horizons.
Hereunder is a list of 10 visa-free countries you can visit as a Nigerian without having to sweat it out:
1. Indonesia:
With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Indonesia is a popular destination for travellers. Citizens of 169 countries, including Nigeria, the US, the UK, and Canada, can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Nigerians heading to Indonesia for brief visits like tourism don’t need a visa but must obtain an electronic travel authorization (eTA or eVisa) beforehand.
Here are some interesting facts about Indonesia:
• Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, consisting of 17,504 islands.
• The country has the second longest coastline in the world, at 54,716 kilometres.
• Sumatra is one of the only two places in the world where you can see orangutans in the wild.
•Indonesia and Monaco have very similar flags, with the only difference being the shade of red used.
•The country is home to the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard species in the world.
2. Barbados:
Barbados is a stunning tropical haven famous for its stunning beaches, lively culture, and welcoming locals. Citizens with Nigerian passports can enjoy a visa-free stay of up to six months, allowing them to discover the charms of this island nation.
Here are some fun facts about Barbados:
• Barbados is named after a tree, specifically the Bearded Fig Tree.
• Barbados is home to 80 beaches with white sand along its coast.
• The island is home to the mischievous Green Monkey, which is originally from West Africa.
• Barbados is the birthplace of rum and is home to the oldest rum brand in the world, Mount Gay Rum, which dates back to 1703.
• The island is known for its exquisite local cuisine and is home to world-renowned chefs, which is why it’s called the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.
3. Cape Verde:
Cape Verde is an island nation located off the northwest coast of Africa. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and music, particularly the genre known as morna. The country consists of ten volcanic islands, each offering its unique landscapes and experiences for visitors. This country offers visa-free access to Nigerians for stays of up to 90 days.
Some facts about Cape Verde:
• Cape Verde is an island country in West Africa, located 385 miles off the coast of the continent.
• The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, but the recognized national language is Cape Verdean Creole.
• The country was uninhabited until the 15th century when it was discovered and colonized by Portuguese explorers.
• The population of Cape Verde is around 596,000 people, mostly of African and European heritage, and predominantly Roman Catholic.
• The country is a stable representative democracy and has remained one of the most developed and democratic countries in Africa.
4. Dominican:
Dominica, a distinct Caribbean island, is celebrated for its untamed natural splendour. Nicknamed the ‘Nature Isle of the Caribbean’, it boasts luxuriant rainforests, dramatic mountains, and rejuvenating hot springs. This tropical gem is also renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkelling experiences, featuring unique underwater volcanic formations and kaleidoscopic coral reefs, making it a paradise for marine enthusiasts. Nigerian citizens can enjoy a visa-free stay in Dominica for six months, courtesy of the island nation’s welcoming policy, which allows hassle-free entry for passport holders from Nigeria. Meanwhile, Dominica is not to be confused with Dominican Republic.
Here are some facts about Dominica:
•The capital of Dominica is Roseau, where the chief port is located.
• Dominica is nicknamed the “Nature Island of the Caribbean” due to its natural environment.
• The island has lush rainforests and is home to many rare plants, animals and bird species.
• The Sisserou parrot, also known as the Imperial Amazon, is critically endangered and found only in Dominica. It is the island’s national bird and is featured on the national flag.
5. Ghana:
Ghana is a West African country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant traditions. It was the first African country to gain independence from colonial rule in 1957. Ghana is famous for its colourful festivals, such as the Ashanti’s Akwasidae.
The country is also renowned for its cocoa production, gold reserves, and vibrant music and dance scene, including the popular highlife genre. Ghana offers visa-free travel to Nigerians for stays of up to 90 days.
Here are some fun facts about Ghana:
• Ghana was the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule.
• The name “Ghana” means “warrior king” in the Soninke language.
• Ghana is known for its rich cultural traditions, including music, dance and art.
• Ghana is home to diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, grasslands and coastal wetlands.
6. Haiti:
Haiti is a Caribbean nation located on the island of Hispaniola, sharing the landmass with the Dominican Republic. It is known for its unique blend of African, French, and indigenous Taíno cultures, which is reflected in its music, art, and cuisine. The country is famous for its vibrant art scene, including its distinctive paintings and sculptures, as well as its lively music, such as Compass and Rara. Haiti grants visa-free access to Nigerian passport holders for stays of up to 90 days.
Here are some facts about Haiti:
•Haiti is the poorest country in Latin America and the Caribbean region and among the poorest in the world.
• The country has one of the highest levels of food insecurity in the world.
• 4.35 million Haitians (nearly half the population) do not have enough to eat, and 1.4 million are facing emergency levels of food insecurity.
• Global acute malnutrition affects 7.2 per cent of children aged under 5, while 66 per cent of under 5 suffer from anaemia.
7. Maldive:
Nigerian citizens can apply for a visa on arrival when travelling to Maldives, which is usually short-term for 30 days. All tourists, of all nationalities, can receive a 30-day visa free of charge on arrival in the Maldives.
Here are the requirements for a tourist visa:
• A valid passport that is at least six months beyond the period of the intended stay in Maldives.
• Proof of onward travel (departure) from Maldives.
• A return flight ticket, or a flight ticket to another destination, for departure within 30 days of arrival.
• Either confirmation of a hotel/resort booking, or evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Maldives (at least $100 + $50 per day demonstrated by cash or bank statement).
8. Mauritius:
Mauritius is a beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and lush forests. Mauritius allows Nigerians to stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
Here are some fascinating facts about Mauritius:
• Mauritius was first discovered by Arab and Malay sailors in the 10th century and then colonized by the Dutch, French and British.
• The country is made up of the islands of Mauritius, Rodrigues, Cargados Carajos Shoals and the Agalega Islands.
• Mauritius was the only known habitat of the dodo, which is still considered the national bird of Mauritius.
• The mountain Le Morne Brabant was a refuge for escaped slaves in the 18th and 19th centuries.
• There is no official language in Mauritius, but English, French and Creole are spoken by most of the population.
• Mauritius has the highest population density in Africa and is one of the most densely populated countries in the world.
9. Senegal:
A vibrant West African country known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Senegal offers visa-free access to Nigerians for stays of up to 90 days.
Here are some fascinating aspects of Senegal:
• Teranga: Senegalese hospitality is legendary, and “Teranga” (meaning “hospitality” in Wolof) is a concept deeply rooted in the culture.
• Music and Dance: Senegal is famous for its lively music and dance, such as Mbalax, a fusion of traditional Wolof and modern styles.
• Cuisine: Delicious dishes like Thieboudienne (fish and rice), Yassa (grilled meat), and Mafe (peanut stew) showcase the country’s culinary diversity.
• Wildlife: Senegal is home to several national parks, including Niokolo-Koba, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for lions, elephants, and other wildlife.
• Coastal beauty: The country boasts a stunning coastline, with popular destinations like Dakar, Saint-Louis, and the picturesque Sine-Saloum Delta.
• Friendly people: Senegalese are known for their warm welcomes and open arms, making visitors feel at home.
10: Seychelles:
Seychelles is an island republic in the western Indian Ocean, consisting of about 115 islands, with lush tropical vegetation, beautiful beaches and a wide variety of marine life. Seychelles, one of 25 Visa-free countries for Nigerians, allows entry for up to 30 days.
Here are some facts about Seychelles:
• Seychelles Is comprised of about 115 islands, with lush tropical vegetation, beautiful beaches and a wide variety of marine life.
• The capital is Victoria, which is located on the island of Mahé.
• The country has a tropical oceanic climate with little temperature variation.
• Seychelles is one of the world’s smallest countries and has a population of around 105,000 people.
SOURCE: Leadership
