Transport and Driving in Nigeria

Getting around in Nigeria can be challenging. Driving in Nigeria, especially for those unfamiliar with local conditions, is often dangerous and painstaking. While public transport is available, it’s not typically recommended for foreign nationals. 

If you’re relocating to Nigeria for work, most companies will provide you with a car and driver, but it’s still important to familiarise yourself with local driving rules and safety measures.

Driving in Nigeria

Driving in Nigeria presents unique challenges, particularly in urban centres like Lagos and Abuja, where traffic congestion can stretch for hours. To cope with these conditions, most expats prefer to hire professional drivers instead of navigating the roads themselves. Traffic jams are a daily reality, and in some cases, people leave home as early as 4am to dodge the worst of it.

For your safety, when being picked up by a driver, always verify their identification before giving any personal details, like your name or your employer’s. Distractions can easily make you think you’ve gotten into the right vehicle, only to find yourself robbed and returned to the pickup point without your valuables.

If you plan to drive yourself, know that you can use your national driving licence for up to three months or an international driving licence for up to one year. After this period, you’ll need a Nigerian driving licence. Most employers are well-equipped to assist with the paperwork and logistics to smooth this transition.

Useful links

• Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)

Public transport in Nigeria

Public transport in Nigeria has evolved in recent years, with new options becoming more reliable and safer. While there are still concerns about safety and reliability, especially for those unfamiliar with the country, notable improvements have been made in key cities like Lagos and Abuja.

Buses

Several bus companies operate in Nigerian cities, but safety remains an issue due to poorly maintained vehicles and inconsistent driving standards. That said, long-distance transport infrastructure has improved, particularly with companies like ABC Transport upgrading their fleets to modern, safer buses. These companies focus on comfort and safety, making intercity travel more viable.

In Lagos, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system has seen significant enhancements. Modern buses, dedicated lanes, and expanded routes have been introduced, improving the daily commute for residents. In Abuja, the BRT system is still under development, but there are ongoing efforts to upgrade bus infrastructure and provide a more reliable service.

The once-iconic large yellow molue buses, also known as danfo, which used to dominate the roads in and around urban areas, have largely been phased out. Now, Lagos relies heavily on its improved BRT system to handle public transport needs.

Trains

Rail transport in Nigeria remains underdeveloped for passengers despite promising developments. The Abuja Light Rail system is now operational and connects key areas within the city and its surroundings, including Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and Kaduna. This system represents West Africa’s first rapid transit line and is set to expand further, covering more ground as part of ongoing infrastructure investment.

Although Nigeria’s railway network still faces challenges with security and reliability, recent investments in infrastructure and safety protocols aim to provide a safer and more efficient passenger experience. Before you embark on a journey, keep an eye on the latest updates regarding train schedules and travel safety.

Taxis in Nigeria

Taxis are abundant in Nigerian cities and provide a convenient way to get around. Taxis are either metered or operate on fixed fares. While you can hail a cab from the street, it’s often safer to book one ahead of time, whether via phone, website, or a mobile app. Always ensure the meter works, or negotiate a flat fare before you set off to avoid surprises.

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt have expanded their reach in Nigeria. Originally available in Abuja and Lagos, these services now operate in other major cities like Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and Enugu. This growth in ride-hailing has made transport more accessible and reliable, with the added convenience of fare transparency and cashless payments.

Okadas

Okadas, or motorbike taxis, are a popular, fast, and cost-effective way to travel around many Nigerian cities. They zip through traffic with ease, but they’re not without risk. While they are still common, several cities, including Lagos and Abuja, have imposed strict restrictions on where and when okadas can operate, primarily due to safety concerns. In areas where they are still allowed, both riders and passengers are required to wear helmets, and drivers must undergo training and obtain licences.

Kekes

Kekes, or tricycles, are another favoured mode of transport for short trips in Nigeria. Like okadas, they are subject to local regulations, with certain cities placing restrictions on their areas of operation to manage congestion and improve safety. Despite these challenges, kekes remain popular due to their ability to navigate crowded streets. There’s also growing interest in making kekes more environmentally friendly, with discussions about transitioning to alternative fuel sources such as LPG or CNG.

Useful links

• Uber Nigeria
• Bolt
• Lagos State Government

Air travel in Nigeria

Given Nigeria’s vast size and the challenges of road travel, air travel is often the most efficient way to get between cities. The country’s two largest international airports are Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. There are also international airports in cities like Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu, serving regional and global destinations.

Nigeria has seen an increase in airline options recently. Nigeria Air, the country’s new national carrier, is expected to begin operations soon, and United Nigeria Airlines has been expanding its domestic network since launching in 2021. International carriers such as Safarilink Airlines offer connections from Nigeria to safari destinations in Kenya.

Local airlines must now adhere to stricter safety standards, with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) enforcing compliance with international safety regulations. Regular audits ensure that proper maintenance and pilot training protocols are followed. Although it's still wise to select airlines carefully, these measures have significantly improved the reliability of domestic air travel.

New airports are also under construction, such as the planned international airport at Lekki-Epe in Lagos and Gusau International Airport in Zamfara. These projects aim to accommodate rising air traffic and promote economic development, although some experts question the necessity of so many new airports given the concentration of passenger traffic in only a few major hubs.

Useful links

• Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)
• Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

Boat travel in Nigeria

Given Nigeria’s strategic location on the Gulf of Guinea and its extensive inland waterways, boat travel is a growing option. Nigeria’s main ports are located in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, but the real development has been in the country’s ferry services. In Lagos, for instance, the Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has expanded its network to include 24 ferry routes operating from 16 terminals, making it a reliable alternative to the city’s often congested roads.

Significant investment has gone into modernising ferry terminals and introducing floating jetties, improving passenger safety and experience. Discussions are also underway to enhance the operations of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), aiming to capitalise on Nigeria’s 2,361 miles (3,800 km) of navigable waterways. These developments are part of broader efforts to position water transport as a viable, eco-friendly solution to Nigeria’s urban transport challenges.

While the expansion of water transport has been promising, safety remains a key concern. Many boats still operate without the necessary safety equipment, and pre-departure safety briefings are frequently skipped. Regulatory bodies like NIMASA and NIWA are working to enforce better safety protocols, but passengers should remain cautious and choose reputable operators.

Useful links

• Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY)
• National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
• Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)