Transport and Driving in Nigeria

Getting around in Nigeria can be challenging. Driving is often a dangerous and painstaking affair, and though public transport is available, it doesn't come highly recommended. Most expats lured abroad to a posting in this African destination are provided with a car and driver, but it's still best to familiarise oneself with the rules of the road.

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Driving in Nigeria

Most companies provide their expat employees with a car and driver. While expats are allowed to drive, most prefer to employ professionals to navigate the Nigerian traffic. Congestion in Nigeria’s urban centres can last hours and some commuters will even leave the house as early as 4am to avoid it.

Foreigners are advised to ensure that, when being collected by a driver, they do not give their name or their employer’s name until they have verified their driver’s identification. A friendly face and plenty of distractions may lull one into thinking they have climbed into the right vehicle, only to find they are being held up, relieved of all their cash and delivered right back to the pick-up point.

Expats can drive in Nigeria with their national driver's licence from their home country for up to three months and on an international driver's licence for up to a year, after which time they are required to have a Nigerian driver's licence. Most employers can assist with the necessary arrangements for this.

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Public transport in Nigeria

There are numerous options when it comes to public transport in Nigeria but, generally, these can be unsafe, unreliable and not recommended for expats.

Buses

Numerous bus companies operate in Nigerian cities but, again, safety is a concern due to poor maintenance of vehicles and low driving standards. While long-distance transport infrastructure is underdeveloped, there are intercity buses, such as those operated by ABC Transport.

The once-popular large yellow molue buses, also known as danfo, used to operate along fixed routes in and around urban areas, but have mostly been phased out. Now, Lagos is home to a Bus Rapid Transit System while Abuja has upcoming projects to improve its bus infrastructure.

Trains

Rail transport in Nigeria, like other means of transport, is not well established for passengers. In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), development of the Abuja Light Rail is underway. As West Africa's first rapid transit system, this train connects Abuja to Kaduna, as well as Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, and there are plans to continue growing. Expats should check the latest news on train schedules and safety regulations.

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Taxis in Nigeria

Taxis are plentiful in Nigerian cities and offer a viable means of transport for expats. Taxis are either metered or have fixed fares. It is possible to hail a cab from the street, but a safer option is to order one ahead of time, either by phone, web or mobile app. We suggest confirming that with the driver that the meter works, or otherwise negotiating a flat fare, before getting in. 

Ride-hailing applications including Uber operate in Abuja, Lagos and Gulu.

Okadas

Okadas, motorbike taxis that hurtle down highways weaving in and out of traffic at breakneck speeds, regularly transport locals in and around Nigerian cities. Although these are arguably one of the fastest and cheapest ways to get around, safety is not guaranteed. In some Nigerian cities, including Abuja, okadas have been banned from operating in certain areas or at specific times of the day.

Kekes

Kekes or tricycles are auto rickshaws that provide a quick way to zip around traffic in Nigeria and travel short distances. As with okadas, some cities have bans or regulations controlling where kekes can operate.

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Air travel in Nigeria

Due to Nigeria’s vast size, as well as numerous safety concerns, travel between cities is best done via air travel. The country’s two main international airports are Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. Other cities, including Kano, Port Harcourt and Enugu, also have international airports.

Several international and regional airlines, such as Arik Air, offer services to and from Nigeria and smaller charter services offer transport to more remote destinations. Expats should choose their airline carefully, though, as local Nigerian airlines have a dubious record or are unreliable.

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Boat travel in Nigeria

Given Nigeria's geographical nature, lying on the Gulf of Guinea, travelling by boat is an option. Nigeria's main ports are in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Calabar. Water transport is developing, and part of this includes recent investment in ferry services, particularly in Lagos.