Jurisdiction Guide

November to March brings the dry season and less humidity. Rainy months (May to September) can make travel tough, especially in the south.

Cash is king, but major hotels and stores in big cities accept cards. Bargaining is common in markets. Nigeria uses the naira, and finding small change can be tricky. Buy a local SIM (MTN, Airtel, or Glo) for decent coverage. English is official but Pidgin and local languages are widely spoken.

Greet people politely, often with a handshake and a smile. Dress neatly, especially in the north and when visiting religious sites. Always use your right hand to give or receive items. Eating with your hands is normal in homes and informal settings. Pointing or beckoning with one finger is considered rude.

Petty theft and scams happen in crowded areas and on public transport. Road travel at night is risky due to poor lighting and occasional police checkpoints. Malaria is widespread, so use mosquito repellent and sleep under nets. Avoid border regions in the northeast due to ongoing conflicts.

Erin Ijesha Waterfall in Osun State offers a cool escape and tiered falls. The Osogbo Sacred Grove is a peaceful UNESCO site with shrines and local art. Visit Idanre Hills to hike ancient steps and see mysterious inscriptions outside Akure.

Most visitors need an e-visa on arrival, which should be applied for in advance and approved before travel. ECOWAS nationals usually enter visa-free. Nigeria does not offer a digital nomad visa, and long-term residence requires official sponsorship. Immigration rules can change without much notice.

Domestic flights connect Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities with relative ease. Intercity buses run everywhere but range from basic to fairly comfortable. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber work well in Lagos and Abuja. Most roads are busy and potholes are common, so self-driving can be stressful.

Try jollof rice, suya (spicy grilled meat), and egusi soup for a taste of local flavors. Street food is tasty but stick to busy stalls with fresh turnover. Star Lager is the most common beer. Many meals are eaten with the hand, using starchy sides like fufu to scoop up sauces. Vegetarian options exist but expect them to be limited outside big cities.

Backpackers can get by on $20-35 a day outside Lagos. Mid-range hotels cost $40-80, while high-end stays in Lagos and Abuja can top $200 a night. Intercity bus fares start around $10. Simple meals cost as little as $2 at roadside canteens.