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Nigerian Passport Drops to 32 Position in 20 Years, Facing Stricter Global Travel Barriers

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 12th, 2025.

Nigerian Passport Drops to 32 Position in 20 Years, Facing Stricter Global Travel Barriers

Over the past two decades, the Nigerian passport has experienced a significant decline in global rankings, dropping 32 positions, according to the Henley Passport Index. This index assesses passports based on the number of countries their holders can access either visa-free or through visa-on-arrival agreements.

In 2006, Nigeria’s passport held the 62nd spot, but by 2025, it had fallen to 94th place. While the passport now allows access to 46 destinations, an increase from 35 in 2006, Nigerian citizens still face visa restrictions in more than 180 countries worldwide. As of January 2025, Nigerian passport holders can visit 25 countries without requiring a visa, with the total rising to 46 when factoring in visa-on-arrival and e-visa options.

Many African nations, such as Ghana, Benin, The Gambia, and Senegal, as well as a handful of countries in other regions like Iran, Maldives, Fiji, and Antigua and Barbuda, offer Nigerians either visa-free access or visa-on-arrival opportunities. While the Nigerian passport has seen some improvement, rising from 103rd place in 2021 to 94th in 2025, its global standing still reflects limited international mobility.

The Henley Passport Index attributes these fluctuations to the diplomatic efforts of countries to enhance relations, modernize visa policies, and tighten border security. Countries that improve their rankings typically benefit from stronger diplomatic ties and more efficient travel facilitation, while those that decline may face challenges in global cooperation.