Nigerian passport at 181st: travellers to DR Congo should verify visa rules early
The Nigerian passport has fallen to 181st place in a global ranking as the number of destinations its holders can enter without a visa declines, affecting Nigerian travellers planning trips abroad.

Nigeria's passport has dropped to 181st place in a global ranking, with visa-free access for its holders shrinking, according to the report. The change matters for Nigerian citizens planning trips abroad, as fewer destinations can be entered without arranging a visa in advance.
Key facts
- The Nigerian passport is now ranked 181st globally.
- Its position has fallen as visa-free access for holders has declined.
- The ranking concerns how many destinations Nigerian passport holders can visit without a visa.
What has changed?
The Nigerian passport has slipped to 181st place in the global ranking. The report attributes the drop to a decline in visa-free access, meaning fewer destinations admit Nigerian passport holders without a visa.
Who is affected?
Nigerian passport holders are directly affected. A lower ranking and reduced visa-free access mean more trips abroad are likely to require arranging a visa before travel rather than entering without one.
What this means for travellers
Nigerian citizens planning international trips should check the entry requirements of their destination well before booking, as the report indicates fewer places can be entered visa-free. Confirming whether a visa is needed, and how it must be obtained, should be part of trip planning.
The report does not state which specific destinations have changed their rules for Nigerian passport holders, nor does it give the number of visa-free destinations before or after the change.