In recent years, some nations have imposed travel restrictions or bans on Nigerians for a variety of reasons, including security concerns and immigration challenges.
These limits have spurred discussions over fairness, immigration laws, and Nigeria’s international standing.
Although outright bans are uncommon, some countries have tightened visa procedures or imposed other restrictions on Nigerian travelers.
Here are some of the nations that have imposed bans or made it difficult for Nigerians to visit.
1. The United Arab Emirates
The UAE is one of the most prominent countries that prohibit Nigerians. In 2022, the UAE ceased giving visas to Nigerians, citing security concerns and immigration infractions.
This move impacted Nigerians who wanted to go to famous destinations such as Dubai for business, tourism, or employment.
The visa prohibition has posed considerable challenges, particularly for Nigerians who have established enterprises or family links in the UAE.
Although diplomatic talks are ongoing, the limitations remain in place, owing mostly to increased allegations of criminality involving Nigerian nationals and visa overstays.
2. Malaysia
Malaysia has made it more difficult for Nigerians to obtain visas, particularly for extended visits. Although there is no official restriction, Nigerians have reported experiencing stricter visa conditions, especially when renewing or getting student or work visas.
Nigerian expats in Malaysia have expressed worries about tougher immigration rules and a perceived bias against them, however the Malaysian government has yet to issue an official statement on the subject.
3. South Africa
While there is no formal prohibition, South Africa has had a problematic relationship with Nigerian immigrants, particularly in the aftermath of the 2019 xenophobic attacks on Nigerians.
These episodes damaged bilateral relations, causing Nigeria to temporarily recall its envoy.
Although diplomatic efforts have improved the situation, there are still instances of Nigerian travelers encountering visa issues and increased scrutiny when entering South Africa.
Officially, South Africa rejects any specific acts against Nigerians, but the sense of bigotry remains.
4. Turkey
Turkey has been increasingly stringent in awarding visas to Nigerians, notably for work and study.
Many Nigerians have claimed regular visa denials, despite the fact that no formal restriction is in force. Turkish officials have raised concerns about security and illegal migration, prompting tighter visa application processes for Nigerian nationals.
While Turkey maintains diplomatic relations with Nigeria, tougher visa regulations have made it more difficult for Nigerians to seek study or job in the country.
5. Lebanon
In 2020, Lebanon issued a temporary restriction on Nigerian entry in response to accusations of abuse and trafficking of Nigerian domestic workers.
Many Nigerians, particularly women, were lured to Lebanon with promises of employment, only to confront exploitation and poor working conditions.
The interim prohibition was intended to combat human trafficking, but it also mirrored wider concerns about the treatment of Nigerian migrants in Lebanon.
The ban has subsequently been lifted, but relations between the two nations remain tense, with tougher monitoring of Nigerian visitors.
6. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has imposed limitations on Nigerians, particularly those seeking employment prospects. The country has tightened visa rules for unskilled workers in response to challenges including illicit migration and overstaying.
Furthermore, Saudi officials have strengthened surveillance of Nigerian pilgrims doing the Hajj, imposing stricter visa requirements and compliance monitoring.
Despite not being an official ban, these regulations have made it more difficult for Nigerians to work or live in the nation.
7. Kenya
Kenya has occasionally imposed visa restrictions on Nigerians, including a short suspension of visa issuance in 2021 due to concerns about illicit activities involving some Nigerian nationals.
While the ban was only temporary, it demonstrated Kenya’s hard stance on immigration control and willingness to act against perceived threats.
Visa services for Nigerians have subsequently resumed, but the incident highlights the growing pattern of African countries imposing limitations on one another due to security or immigration concerns.
8. Seychelles
Seychelles, which is famed for its tourism and scenic scenery, has similarly imposed limitations on Nigerian travelers in 2023.
While not an outright prohibition, the country stopped providing visas on arrival to Nigerians, hence strengthening immigration restrictions.
This decision was linked to worries about Nigerian nationals overstaying their visas and illicit migration.
Nigerians now face a more difficult process when attempting to visit Seychelles, with stiffer visa requirements and increased inspection while traveling.
