Nigeria’s Passport Jumps to 88th Position in Global Travel Index

The Nigerian passport has climbed four places to 88th in the newly released Henley Passport Index, but it remains one of the weakest on the African continent.

According to the index, which ranks 199 passports by visa‑free access to 227 destinations using International Air Transport Association (IATA) data, Nigerian citizens can now enter 45 countries without a visa.

Global Leaders and Laggards

Singapore retains its top spot with visa‑free access to 193 countries. Close behind are Japan and South Korea, each with access to 190 destinations. The top ten is rounded out by Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Spain, all granting visa‑free entry to at least 189 countries.

At the other end of the scale, Afghanistan holds the title of the world’s weakest passport, with visa‑free access to only 25 countries. Syria (27), Iraq (30) and Pakistan, Somalia and Yemen (32 each) also feature among the lowest‑ranking passports.

Notable Movers

Over the past six months, India, Saudi Arabia and Qatar made the biggest gains, securing visa‑free entry to more countries than they had in 2024. In contrast, Venezuela, the United States, Vanuatu and the United Kingdom saw their rankings slip compared to last year.

Africa’s Passport Powerhouses

Within Africa, Seychelles leads with 156 visa‑free destinations, placing 24th globally. Mauritius follows at 29th with access to 151 countries. South Africa ranks 48th (106 destinations), trailed by Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and Malawi, all of which grant visa‑free entry to more than 100 countries.

The Bottom of Africa’s List

At the bottom of the continent’s rankings are Somalia, Libya, Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Djibouti and the Republic of Congo. Each of these passports offers visa‑free access to fewer than 50 countries, underscoring significant travel restrictions for their citizens.

No Comment from the Government

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo, had not responded to requests for comment on the Henley Passport Index at the time of publication.

As global mobility grows ever more important for business, education and tourism, Nigeria’s steady but modest climb in the rankings suggests some progress, but also highlights the work still needed to expand visa‑free travel opportunities for its citizens.