How the Nigerian Passport is Losing More Power in 2025

A recent report has revealed that the Nigerian passport remains one of the least powerful in the world for 2025. Ranked among the bottom 18 globally, this classification continues a worrying trend that reflects the challenges of international mobility for Nigerians.

The ranking, provided by the Henley Passport Index, measures how many destinations passport holders can visit without needing a visa. For 2025, Nigeria’s passport is placed at 183 out of 200 countries. This ranking underscores the limited access Nigerian citizens have to visa-free travel, presenting significant hurdles for international travel, whether for business, education, or leisure.

What the Rankings Say

While countries like Singapore and Japan are leading the world with access to nearly 200 destinations visa-free, Nigerian passport holders face strict visa requirements in most parts of the world. 

Singapore, which tops the list in 2025, allows its citizens to travel freely to 195 destinations. In contrast, the Nigerian passport opens doors to far fewer destinations, placing it near the bottom alongside countries like Afghanistan.

Why the decline matters

For Nigerians, this ranking has real-world implications. It impacts how easily citizens can access global opportunities, including employment, education, and tourism. The limited mobility also paints a broader picture of how Nigeria is perceived internationally in terms of economic stability, governance, and bilateral relations.

Regional and global trends

In stark contrast, some countries have seen significant improvements over the years. The United Arab Emirates, for instance, climbed steadily to secure a place in the top 10, with access to 185 destinations. This progress demonstrates how strong diplomatic relations and strategic partnerships can enhance global mobility.

However, the decline in rankings isn’t unique to Nigeria. Other major countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have also experienced setbacks. The U.S., once ranked among the top passports, now sits in 9th place, highlighting a broader trend of shifting global dynamics.

Challenges ahead

The declining strength of the Nigerian passport reflects deeper challenges, including political instability, economic struggles, and strained international relations. These factors influence the willingness of other nations to offer Nigerians visa-free access.

Improving the ranking will require concerted efforts by policymakers to strengthen diplomatic ties, improve Nigeria’s global image, and address internal challenges that contribute to the current state of affairs.

Moving forward

For now, the reality of the Nigerian passport’s low ranking continues to affect millions. As global travel becomes increasingly vital in a connected world, improving passport strength should be a priority for the country. 

By fostering stronger international relationships and addressing domestic issues, Nigeria can work towards a future where its citizens enjoy greater freedom and opportunity abroad.