Nigeria is a vast country and destination offering many novels and authentic experiences. Here are some tips to help you better navigate the local culture and enjoy your time in Nigeria.
A
Attire
Dressing is a minor deal in Nigeria. Still, visitors, both men and women, should show respect for religion and culture by not wearing clothes that are too revealing in the northern parts of Nigeria. It is recommended that women cover their shoulders and knees.
B
Bargaining
Shopping in Nigeria as a foreigner or someone who doesn’t speak the local language could be a complex issue. The risk of being overcharged or underserved will be high, so you should seek advice from your tour operator or someone local to do the bargaining.
C
Currency
The Nigerian Naira is the only currency used in the country and can be obtained through ATMs, which are widely available in malls, banks, hotels, and other places around Nigeria. Another way of obtaining cash is through a system called Point of Service (POS), which is an informal way where money is dispensed by vendors in the street.
Customs regulations
To read about customs regulations in Nigeria and other related information, click here.
D
Drinking water
According to the World Health Organization, about 70% of Nigerians are reported to have access to essential water services, and more than half of these water sources are contaminated. Even though 73% of the country’s population has access to a water source, the average Nigerian only has nine litres of water daily.
However, many Nigerians drink bottled water, and there are many local and foreign brands to choose from.
E
Electric supply
The standard voltage is 240 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. Plug points are the same as in the UK. One needs a voltage converter or a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter to use electric appliances made for the range of 100 V–127 V (as in the US, Canada, and most South American countries).
Nigeria’s national grid lacks electricity, so most businesses run on generators.
Embassies & Consulates
Lagos and Abuja are home to over 100 foreign embassies and a consulate. These are open for business from Monday to Friday and closed on Saturday and Sunday, as well as all public holidays in Nigeria and the embassy’s home country.
F
Friday timings
During Friday prayers, all government, business, and commercial work stops in the mostly northern states of Nigeria around noon. Furthermore, several stores remain closed on Fridays, while malls and markets remain open for business.
G
Greetings
Some northern ladies will not shake hands with men, and many men will not shock a lady’s hand as a gesture of respect. While the approach is more liberal in other parts of Nigeria, greetings are essential to Nigerian culture as a mark of respect.
H
Healthcare facilities
It is recommended that foreign visitors to Nigeria have valid health insurance for private health care since state government hospitals and health centres are not well-equipped for emergency care.
I
Internet Connectivity
Four major communication companies operate within this segment, including MTN, Globacom, Airtel, and 9Mobile. In addition, other telecommunications companies, such as Ntel, run a 4G LTE service. Also, most hotels provide free WiFi for customers.
J
Nigeria’s Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Nigeria is home to four different legal systems: Sharia law, English law, common law, and customary law. Common law in Nigeria emerged after the country’s post-colonial independence, although English law originated in colonial Nigeria.
K
In Nigeria, the traditional institution of kingship has significantly shaped the social, cultural, and political landscape of various ethnic groups. The roles of kings, often referred to as traditional rulers or monarchs vary across regions, but they generally hold positions of high esteem and influence within their respective communities.
L
Language
Nigeria is a multi-ethnic country. So, Nigeria is a melting pot of cultures, with many different languages and ways of life. English is the official language, but Pidgin English is spoken everywhere. At the same time, the three major languages (Yoruba, Igbo, and Haussa) are expressed in different parts of the country.
M
Meet & Greet Services
Other countries have meet-and-greet services at the airport, but Nigeria has them at different places.
N
The national flag of the Nigerian is a vertical bicolour triband of green, whiteand green. The two green stripes represent Nigeria’s natural wealth, while the white represents peace.
O
Official holidays
Nigerian National Day is October 1st. Also, Nigeria celebrates up to 20 holidays a year. This includes Christian and Muslim religious holidays. The federal government sometimes sets holidays outside the country’s official holiday.
P
Public Display of Affection
In northern Nigeria, showing overt affection and intimacy in public is frowned upon, but that’s not the case in other parts of the country.
R
Religion
Nigeria has many different religions, and Christianity and Islam are essential toeveryday life. Also, both religions’ holidays are observed in Nigeria.
S
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in official spaces, including museums, sports clubs, shopping malls, and restaurants.
T
Tipping
Most hospitality outlets in Nigeria include a service charge in the bill. However, any amount as a gesture of satisfaction is appreciated. It is advisable to carry cash for tipping.
Nigerians are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. The people of Nigeria take pride in their rich cultural heritage and are often eager to share it with those who come to explore their country.
W
Weather
Nigeria is generally hot all year, as it is in the tropical zone, with little difference between winter and summer. Seasons are defined as the wet season, from April to October, and the dry season, from November until March.
Z
Nigeria is divided into six geopolitical zones, each comprising several states designed to promote administrative efficiency and regional development. These zones are North-West, North-East, North-Central, South-West, South-East, and South-South.
