The Nigerian passport has fallen 32 places in global passport rankings over the past two decades, according to the Henley Passport Index reports from 2006 to 2025.
In 2006, the Nigerian passport ranked 62nd, but by 2025, it had dropped to 94th place. Over the same period, the passport gained access to 11 more destinations, allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to 46 countries, up from 35 in 2006. However, Nigerians still face restrictions in over 181 destinations worldwide.
As of January 2025, Nigerian passport holders could travel visa-free to only 25 countries. Including visa-on-arrival and e-visa options, this number rises to 46. Countries offering such access include Benin, Ghana, The Gambia, Senegal, Iran, Maldives, Fiji, and Antigua and Barbuda.
The passport has improved slightly in recent years, moving from 103rd place in 2021 to 94th in 2025. However, it still ranks low among 199 countries and 227 destinations studied.
The Henley Passport Index links these rankings to factors like diplomatic relations, visa policy reforms, and border security. Strong rankings reflect successful efforts in these areas, while declines point to gaps in international cooperation and travel facilitation.