Moving to Nigeria

Located in West Africa, Nigeria is an economic powerhouse and a key player in the region. Its southern coast lies on the Gulf of Guinea, opening into the Atlantic Ocean. Most expats moving to Nigeria settle in bustling Lagos or the capital city of Abuja.

Nigeria is richly multicultural, boasting over 500 languages and 250 ethnic groups. Its socially and geographically diverse environment makes it essential to get a good grasp of what to expect before you move.

Living in Nigeria as an expat

Living in Nigeria as an expat comes with a unique set of challenges. The media often focuses on safety concerns, highlighting crime, corruption, and scams. While these issues exist, especially in urban areas like Lagos and Abuja, there have been efforts to improve security through increased policing. As an expat, you’re advised to stay vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and stay informed through local embassies and news outlets. Crime should be a concern, but not a complete deterrent.

If you’re moving to Nigeria for work, you’ll likely benefit from a generous employment contract. Major multinationals, particularly in oil and mining, have a strong presence here, and many provide wide-ranging employment packages, including housing and healthcare. Nigeria is also seeing growing opportunities in IT, telecoms, and financial services.

When it comes to accommodation, many companies secure housing in gated communities with 24-hour security, swimming pools, and gyms. These complexes often foster a strong expat community, providing security and social engagement.

But be aware – life inside these gated communities can feel quite different from the local Nigerian lifestyle. The upside? You’re protected from many day-to-day security issues and can focus on your work or enjoy leisure activities without too much worry.

Private healthcare in Nigeria is essential for expats, as public facilities frequently lack the resources and standards you might be used to. Your company will likely include healthcare in your relocation package, but it’s worth reviewing the details of your insurance to ensure it covers private clinics and hospitals in urban areas.

Cost of living in Nigeria

You may have heard that the cost of living in Nigeria comes with a high price tag, but recent data tells a different story. The 2024 Mercer Cost of Living Survey ranks Lagos 225th and Abuja 226th out of 226 cities globally. Companies often also offer enticing relocation packages that cover accommodation, transport, healthcare, and schooling.

Families and children in Nigeria

If you’re relocating with your family, one of your first priorities will be finding a good school for your children. Lagos and Abuja have several excellent international schools offering British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula. These schools provide quality education and are a great way for your family to integrate into the expat community.

Nigeria is also full of hidden gems that make for fantastic family outings. There’s no shortage of adventures, from the peaceful beaches along the coast to the wildlife reserves teeming with fascinating animals. 

If you’re in Lagos, a visit to the Lekki Conservation Centre offers a beautiful escape into nature. In Bauchi, the Yankari National Park is a must for its breathtaking rainforest habitat and natural hot springs.

On the downside, transport in Nigeria can be a headache. Lagos traffic is notoriously bad, and it’s not uncommon for commutes to turn into lengthy, stressful ordeals. Most expats solve this by hiring a driver, which takes the stress out of navigating chaotic roads. Having a driver can also help manage the more frustrating aspects of life in Nigerian cities, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

Climate in Nigeria

If you love sunshine, Nigeria is perfect for you. The country enjoys bright, sunny weather for most of the year. But during the height of summer, temperatures can soar, making it key to stay cool and hydrated. Many expats invest in air conditioning, but power outages can be frequent. It’s common practice to have a generator or a backup power supply to keep things running smoothly.

The rainy season can also bring heavy downpours, so pack appropriately for the unpredictable weather. But don’t let that put you off – the exciting environment and friendly locals make it all worthwhile. 

As with any destination, Nigeria brings pros and cons, so come prepared and keep an open mind to make the most of your time here.

Fast facts

Official name: Federal Republic of Nigeria

Population: Around 229 million

Capital city: Abuja

Largest city: Lagos (population of 16.5 million)

Neighbouring countries: Nigeria shares borders with Benin to the west, Niger to the north, Chad to the northeast, and Cameroon to the east. It is located on the Gulf of Guinea, along the Atlantic coast.

Geography: Nigeria boasts a varied landscape that includes coastal plains, mangrove swamps, tropical rainforests, and savannahs. The country is home to the Niger Delta, one of the world’s largest river deltas, and features the Niger and Benue rivers. Nigeria is rich in natural resources, including petroleum and natural gas, which are key economic drivers.

Political system: Federal presidential republic. The system includes an executive branch led by the President, a bicameral legislature (Senate and House of Representatives), and an independent judiciary. Sharia law is also applied in some northern states.

Main languages: English is the official language. Major regional languages include Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Fulfulde, reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic makeup.

Major religions: Christianity and Islam are the dominant religions, with traditional beliefs also widely practised. The northern regions are predominantly Muslim, while the south is mostly Christian.

Currency: The Nigerian Naira (NGN or ₦) is the official currency. ATMs are available in urban areas, but card fraud remains a concern, so monitoring bank and credit card activity is important.

Tipping: In restaurants, a tip of around 10 percent is appreciated if service is not included. Taxi fares are typically agreed upon before the journey, with small tips for good service being common.

Time zone: West Africa Time (WAT), GMT+1

Electricity: Standard voltage is 240V. Round (type D) and square (type G) three-pin plugs are used. Power outages are frequent, so having a generator or backup system is advisable.

International dialling code: +234

Emergency number: 112

Internet domain: .ng

Driving and transport: Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. Traffic congestion and road safety are major concerns, particularly in Lagos. Due to the challenging road conditions and safety concerns, most expats have a company-provided car and driver.