By Samuel Oamen

Travelling for Nigerians increasingly requires adequate planning.

In the recently released Henley Passport Index for Q2 2023, the Nigerian passport rose from its previous 100th position to 91st among the 199 countries and 227 travel destinations studied.

The index showed The Gambia, leading the ECOWAS, ranked 72nd, Sierra Leone at 74th, Cabo Verde at 75th, Ghana at 76th, Benin at 78th, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast at 79th, Guinea at 80th, Senegal and Togo at 81st, Niger at 82nd, Mali and Guinea Bissau at 83rd, Liberia at 87th and Nigeria at 91st.

However, there are visa-free countries accessible to all Nigerian passport holders. With just a valid passport, you can gain entry into these countries without having to stress yourself over a visa. Some may, however, be required to apply for a visa at their point of entry.

1. RWANDA

Rwandan government has waived entry visas to Nigerians, other Africans and members of the Commonwealth in a bid to promote the ease of doing business and attract investors into the Central/Eastern African country.

2. DJIBOUTI

In East Africa, one of the best places to visit from Nigeria is Djibouti.

Nigerian citizens who are planning a trip to Djibouti aren’t required to apply for a visa if they wish to go for short stays (tourism). But it’s required to obtain an electronic travel authorization (eTA or eVisa) before entering Djibouti.

The country has beautiful places to visit such as Lake Assal, which is the lowest point on land in Africa. In the world, it is only the third after the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea.

3. CAPE VERDE

A visa is not required for Nigerian passport holders visiting Cape Verde for a short-term stay: 90 days.

Cape Verde is an island country that is found on the West African coast. It is one of the most welcoming tourist destinations on the continent as it has great weather and beautiful spots that you could have a splendid vacation.

4. BURKINA FASO

A visa is NOT required for Nigerian passport holders visiting Burkina Faso for a short-term stay.

The country plays host to the International Arts and Crafts Fair, Ouagadougou which is regarded as one of the most important African handicraft fairs.

5. BENIN REPUBLIC

As a Nigerian passport holder, you can visit Benin Republic and stay for 3 months without a visa. A country located close to Nigeria, there are a number of tourist attractions in the country that may interest you like the nominated UNESCO World Heritage site named Pendjari National Park.

6. BURUNDI

Nigerians are allowed a visit to Burundi for 30 days without a visa requirement. The country is known for its craft works that serve as a great gift option for tourists. From shields, baskets and masks to statues and pottery. An important part of the culture in Burundi is drumming, the Royal Drummers of Burundi have been performing for 40 years. The oral tradition of the country through poetry, storytelling and songs is also something worth enjoying.

7. CAMEROON

Nigerian citizens do not need a tourist visa when travelling to Cameroon. Cameroon Visa free is free for Nigerian citizens. With this visit visa stay is usually short with a period of 90 days. Applicant is not required to be present when applying for Cameroon Visa free.

Enjoy a great time in Cameroon. Check out the National Museum & Mvog-Betsi Zoo in Yaounde or the La Pagode Maritime Museum in Douala. There are a number of wildlife species ranging from lions and antelopes to snakes and birds, you will find at any of the parks.

8. COTE D’IVOIRE

Ivory Coast visa is not required for Nigerian citizens. Nigerian passport holders do not need to apply for a visa.

Nice places to visit in Ivory Coast: The beach resorts of Assinie, the Parc National de Tai, valleys of Man and the artsy Grand Bassam are some of the breathtaking tourist attractions you can see in Cote d’ivoire. You may also enjoy the lagoon boat tour or visit the open markets in Treichville or Cocody.

9. COMOROS

You can travel to Comoros without a visa but you can get the visa on arrival. Comoros Island is made up of four developed islands with white sandy beaches, giant fruit bats, volcanoes, and rainforests. Enjoy one of the best adventures on Comoros Island and make memories of a lifetime.

10. BARBADOS

Nigerian nationals do not require a visa to travel to Barbados for a period of 180 days. However, they need to possess a passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond their intended date of exit from Barbados.