Nigerians, like people from many other countries, have diverse preferences when it comes to travel destinations. The top 10 countries Nigerians love to travel to can vary based on personal interests, budget, and other factors.
However, some countries are consistently popular among Nigerian travelers due to their attractions, cultural connections, and visa accessibility.
With the security, education sector, and national economy all failing, Nigerian citizens’ financial lives are becoming disturbing, and are compelled to make drastic moves such as relocating to other countries.
Many have argued that Nigeria, at this point, is at its worst times, and the people are packing their bags and moving out every day. At least a week over a thousand Nigerians relocate to different parts of the world to seek a better and easier life.
Here are 10 countries that Nigerians often love to visit:
1. Nigerians Love to Travel to the United States:
The USA is a popular destination for Nigerians due to its diverse culture, educational opportunities, and attractions like Disney World, New York City, and national parks.
Nigerians in the United States, often referred to as the Nigerian diaspora, form a diverse and dynamic community with a wide range of backgrounds, professions, and experiences. Here are some key points about Nigerians living in the United States:
Population:
The Nigerian diaspora in the United States is estimated to be one of the largest African immigrant communities in the country.
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there were over 376,000 Nigerian-born individuals in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey.
Diversity:
Nigerian immigrants in the U.S. come from various ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. Nigeria is a diverse country with numerous ethnic groups and languages, and this diversity is reflected in the Nigerian diaspora.
Nigerians in the United States are known for their high levels of education and professional achievements.
Many Nigerian immigrants hold advanced degrees and work in fields such as medicine, engineering, finance, academia, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Contributions:
Nigerians in the United States have made significant contributions to various aspects of American society, including science, technology, business, arts, and culture.
They have also been involved in community organizations and advocacy efforts.
Cultural and Religious Practices:
Nigerian immigrants often maintain their cultural traditions and religious practices in the U.S. This includes celebrating Nigerian festivals, music, dance, and cuisine, as well as participating in religious congregations and events.
Community Organizations:
There are numerous Nigerian community organizations, associations, and cultural centers across the United States that serve as hubs for social, cultural, and networking activities.
These organizations help newcomers integrate into American society while maintaining their Nigerian heritage.
Challenges:
Like other immigrant communities, Nigerians in the United States face challenges such as immigration issues, discrimination, cultural adjustment, and family separation.
However, they also benefit from opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Networking and Support:
Nigerians often form close-knit communities in the United States, providing support and networking opportunities for fellow Nigerians, especially newcomers.
These networks can be valuable for job searches, mentoring, and social connections.
Education and Cultural Exchange:
Many Nigerian students pursue higher education in the United States, attracted by the quality of American universities. This educational exchange fosters cross-cultural understanding and provides valuable experiences for Nigerian students.
Advocacy and Engagement:
Some Nigerians in the United States are engaged in advocacy and community-building efforts, addressing issues related to immigration policies, healthcare access, education, and social justice.
Please note that the information provided is based on data available up to September 2021.
The Nigerian diaspora, like any immigrant community, is dynamic and continually evolving, with new developments and contributions occurring over time.
2. Nigerians Love to Travel to the United Kingdom:
The UK attracts Nigerians for its rich history, cultural heritage, and educational institutions. London, in particular, is a top choice.
The UK is a sovereign state formed by the four comprising countries England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland with a population of about 67 million people.
It has a very stable economy especially now that Brexit is complete and the state has the Pound sterling, the 4th most traded currency available to its citizens instead of the common European currency of the euro.
The country has granted 58,897 Nigerian student visas in the last two years with its great education structure for students of different cultures.
The UK is a friendly and safe place to live with the crime rate dropping drastically by 13% from its previous years. The country’s ban on citizens with weaponry is strictly heeded by its occupiers.
UK Visa for Nigerians | UK Visa Requirements and How to Apply
3. Canada:
Canada is known for its welcoming immigration policies and natural beauty, making it a desirable destination for Nigerians looking for new opportunities and a high quality of life.
Canada is currently the ‘best’ place where Nigerians “Japa”, because of its friendliness to migrants.
The country is currently open to all people of the world because it is under-populated and is trying to build its population which is currently at 38 million, pretty low for a country with a land size of an amazing 9.985 million km².
French and English are the most common languages spoken in the country.
The country has a very stable economy and has the 8th-largest GDP by nominal and 15th-largest GDP by Public-Private Partnerships in the world.
The state has free education in some institutions with fantastic infrastructure for its citizens and migrants.
Canada is ranked the 12th safest area to live in. The country has a very low crime rate.
Location In Canada
4. United Arab Emirates (UAE):
The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a favorite among Nigerians for luxury shopping, entertainment, and job opportunities.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country located in the Middle East, on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
It is known for its modern cities, luxurious lifestyle, and a thriving economy driven by oil and tourism. Here are some key facts about the United Arab Emirates:
The capital city of the UAE is Abu Dhabi.
Cities: Dubai, the largest city in the UAE, is famous for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
Nigerian Economy in UAE:
The UAE has a highly developed and diverse economy, with a strong focus on sectors such as oil and gas, real estate, tourism, and finance. It is one of the world’s largest oil producers and exporters.
Tourism:
The UAE is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. Dubai, in particular, is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building) and Palm Jumeirah Island.
Culture:
While the UAE is a modern and cosmopolitan country, it also values its traditional culture and heritage. The culture is influenced by Islamic traditions, and you can find many historic sites and museums in the country.
Language:
Arabic is the official language of the UAE, but English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism.
Religion:
Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and the country is known for its stunning mosques.
Visa Policy:
The UAE has a relatively open visa policy, with different types of visas available for tourists, expatriate workers, and investors.
Climate:
The UAE has a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is minimal, and the country experiences a high level of sunshine throughout the year.
Infrastructure:
The UAE has invested heavily in infrastructure development, including world-class airports, modern roads, and a well-developed public transportation system.
Sports:
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the UAE, with camel racing and falconry also being traditional activities of interest.
Tolerance:
The UAE is known for its cultural diversity and tolerance. Expatriates from all over the world live and work in the country, contributing to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Shopping:
The UAE is a shopping paradise, with numerous malls, markets, and boutiques offering a wide range of products from around the world. Dubai’s Gold Souk is particularly famous for its gold and jewelry.
Entertainment:
The country hosts numerous cultural events, music festivals, and international conferences. It also has a growing film industry and is home to the Dubai International Film Festival.
Landmarks:
In addition to the Burj Khalifa, other notable landmarks in the UAE include the Burj Al Arab, Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the artificial Palm Islands.
The UAE’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, along with its economic opportunities and tourism attractions, make it a fascinating destination for travelers and a dynamic place to live and work for expatriates.
5. Nigerians Love to Travel to South Africa:
South Africa is a popular destination for Nigerians seeking wildlife safaris, beautiful landscapes, and a diverse cultural experience.
Nigerians, like travelers from many other countries, are drawn to South Africa for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the factors that contribute to the popularity of South Africa as a travel destination for Nigerians:
Diverse Tourist Attractions:
South Africa offers a wide range of attractions for tourists, including stunning natural landscapes, wildlife safaris, beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. These diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.
Wildlife and Safaris:
South Africa is renowned for its incredible wildlife and national parks, such as Kruger National Park. Nigerians who love wildlife and adventure are often drawn to South Africa for safari experiences and the opportunity to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros).
Nigerians’ Cultural Richness In South Africa:
South Africa has a rich and diverse cultural heritage with 11 official languages and a history of various ethnic groups and traditions.
Nigerian travelers often find the opportunity to explore South African culture and heritage fascinating.
Economic Opportunities:
South Africa is one of the most developed economies in Africa, and it attracts Nigerian business travelers looking for investment opportunities, partnerships, and conferences. Johannesburg, in particular, is a business hub on the continent.
Educational Pursuits:
South Africa is home to several world-class universities and educational institutions. Many Nigerian students choose to study in South Africa due to the quality of education and the availability of scholarships.
Historical and Political Interest:
South Africa’s history of apartheid and its transition to democracy under Nelson Mandela’s leadership holds significant global interest. Nigerians who are interested in history and politics often visit South Africa to learn more about this historical period.
Ease of Travel:
South Africa has a well-developed infrastructure, international airports, and a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets. It’s relatively easy for Nigerians to plan and book trips to South Africa.
Visa Accessibility:
While visa requirements may vary and are subject to change, South Africa has typically maintained relatively accessible visa policies for Nigerians, making it easier for them to travel to the country.
Cultural Connections:
South Africa and Nigeria share some cultural connections, especially through the music and entertainment industries. Nigerians may have a sense of familiarity and cultural affinity with South Africa.
Sports and Entertainment:
South Africa has hosted several major international sporting events, such as the FIFA World Cup, which can attract Nigerian sports enthusiasts and fans.
It’s important to note that individual preferences and reasons for travel may vary among Nigerians. Some may be drawn to South Africa for leisure and tourism, while others may have business, educational, or personal reasons.
Overall, South Africa’s diverse offerings, economic opportunities, and cultural richness make it an appealing destination for Nigerian travelers.
Best Travel Agencies In Nigeria
6. France:
France’s romantic appeal, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, and world-class cuisine make it a top choice for Nigerians interested in European travel.
Nigerians, like people from various countries, can successfully live and work in France by taking specific steps and adapting to the local culture and environment. Here are some key aspects of how Nigerians can survive and thrive in France:
Legal Status:
The first step for Nigerians wishing to live and work in France is to secure the necessary legal status. This typically involves obtaining the appropriate visa and residence permit.
The type of visa and permit required will depend on your purposes for being in France, such as employment, education, or family reunification.
Language Skills:
While it’s possible to live in France without speaking French, having a good command of the French language significantly enhances your opportunities for employment and integration. Consider taking language courses to improve your language skills.
Employment:
Finding a job in France can be competitive, so it’s essential to have a strong resume, relevant qualifications, and a network of contacts.
Major cities like Paris offer a range of job opportunities, especially in industries like IT, finance, hospitality, and education.
Networking:
Building a professional network is crucial in France. Attend networking events, join industry-specific groups, and utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field.
Cultural Adaptation:
French culture has its own customs and social norms. Learning about and respecting these cultural differences will help you integrate and build relationships with locals. Be punctual, polite, and open to new experiences.
Housing:
Finding suitable accommodation in France can be challenging, especially in major cities. Start your search well in advance, and consider options such as shared housing, renting, or buying, depending on your circumstances.
Healthcare:
France has a high-quality healthcare system. Ensure you have appropriate health insurance coverage, whether through your employer, the French healthcare system, or private insurance.
Education For Nigerians in France:
If you have children, research the education system in France. The country offers both public and private schools, as well as international schools that may follow curricula from English-speaking countries.
Legal and Administrative Support:
Familiarize yourself with French administrative procedures and legal requirements. Seek assistance from local government offices, expat organizations, or legal professionals if needed.
Integration:
Engage with the local community and participate in cultural events, sports, and social activities. This will help you make friends and feel more at home in France.
Financial Management:
Managing your finances is important for long-term stability. Open a local bank account, understand the tax system, and budget wisely.
Safety:
France is generally safe, but it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against common risks such as pickpocketing.
Social Support:
Seek out Nigerian and expatriate communities in France. These communities can provide support, advice, and a sense of belonging.
Overall, living in France as a Nigerian can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning, adaptation, and persistence.
It’s essential to stay informed about legal requirements, integrate into the local culture, and build a support network to make the most of your time in France.
France in photo
7. Norway:
Norway is a small country with a small population of 5 million people and 385,207 km² in land size. Nigerians love to travel to this place for better living conditions.
Norway is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, one of the most beautiful areas is the Lofoten Islands in the north of the country.
Its official languages are Norwegian and Sami. The Norwegian language is spoken more than the Sami language.
The country in Northern Europe offers free education to its tertiary schools.
Norway is a very peaceful country, with a population that Norway has crime in the country almost none.
Finding job opportunities for Nigerians in Norway or any other foreign country can be challenging due to immigration regulations, language requirements, and competition in the job market.
However, it’s not impossible, and some specific fields and strategies may increase your chances of finding employment in Norway as a Nigerian:
Remember that the job market in Norway can be competitive, and it may take time to secure a suitable job. Patience and persistence are key when searching for employment in a foreign country. Additionally, staying informed about immigration regulations and work permit requirements is crucial to ensure that you have the legal right to work in Norway.
8. Nigerians’ Love for Germany:
Germany is a country known for its beer festival, Oktoberfest which is held every year, and is also known for its famous automobile companies like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen, and its major involvements in WW2 boasts a population of about 83 million people on a land size of 357,022 km².
Read to know more about Germany
A common language spoken in Germany is German while English is still spoken to foreigners.
Deutschland has the fourth-largest economy because of the lots of industries that are working there but its economy slowly going down the toilet, the country is currently fighting against a recession.
The country has free tuition for its public schools but some of its programs will be paid for. Germany has multiple schools to choose from with its exceptional tertiary institutions.
Germany is a great choice for Nigerians who want to relocate abroad
9. Australia:
The country that’s also a continent, far away from the rest of the world is occupied by 26 million people, gives a lot of opportunities for migrants to get a job, and offers affordable tertiary education to universities of choice with its stable economy and large public services sectors.
Australia has been cited as one of the best countries one can migrate to as a Nigerian. Regardless of the distance, the country offers quality life to all, irrespective of race or religious background.
Australia is known to have slightly harsh weather conditions. This has placed the country at some disadvantage as it lacks in certain aspects like skilled labor.
This is why the country, just like Canada, is continuously seeking skilled labor from different parts of the world to fill up vacant slots in workplaces.
Although lately, they have tightened up their borders, especially with the high price of processing their visa, they still record a high influx of immigrants from different parts of the world (Nigeria included).
Australia is open to you so long as what you seek to do is legal and will help the country’s growth. You have boundless opportunities open to you there as an immigrant.
10. Singapore
Singapore speaks the following languages- English, Mandarin Chinese, Standard Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay. The country makes it to our list of the top best countries for Nigerians to migrate to.
The country is an Island and is regarded as one of the global financial centers of the Asian continent, even though it has only a small population of not more than 6 million.
The quality of living in Singapore is high, as it is ranked 5th on the Human Development Index. It is a good choice of country, as they welcome immigrants. However, you will need an employment permit to get started here, and attaining citizenship could take as much as ten years.
If you are in for business and want to set up a company of your own, you can initiate your startup and get an entry pass to start living in the country.
It’s essential to note that travel preferences can vary greatly among individuals, so some Nigerians may have different favorite destinations based on their specific interests and goals.
Additionally, visa requirements and travel regulations can change, so it’s essential to check the latest information before planning any international trip.
The Beauty of Singapore