Travel & Tourism Travel Tips 15 Essential Tips for Non-English Speaking Tourists Visiting Nigeria Confidence NwaobiDecember 11, 2025031 views Nigeria is one of those countries that surprises people in the best ways. It’s big, loud, warm, bright, busy, and full of life. It’s a country where strangers can turn into friends in minutes, where food tastes like home even when it’s your first time eating it, and where culture greets you at every corner. But if you’re a non-English-speaking tourist visiting Nigeria, you might be wondering: “Will I cope? Will people understand me? Will it be confusing?” Good news, you’ll be fine. Nigeria may officially speak English, but the country is full of people who communicate in different ways. Nigerians are naturally expressive. They gesticulate, speak with energy, and are always there to help, even when words fail. Still, there are a few things that can make your experience easier. Whether you’re coming for work, holiday, or adventure, here are the things every non-English speaking tourist in Nigeria should know. 15 Tips for Non-English Speaking Tourists Visiting Nigeria 1. Nigerians Speak English… but Not the English You Expect Yes, English is Nigeria’s official language. But the way Nigerians speak it is different from what you’ll hear in Europe, Asia, or Latin America. Here’s what to expect: People speak fast People speak with strong accents (varies by region) Words are mixed with local expressions. Nigerian Pidgin English appears everywhere. For example, you might hear: “How far?” (means “How are you?”) “No wahala” (means “No problem”) “Abeg” (means “Please”) If you don’t speak English at all, don’t panic. Most Nigerians are used to communicating with foreigners and can slow down, repeat themselves, or even switch to simpler words. 2. Language Diversity Is Huge – Over 500 Local Languages Even Nigerians themselves don’t understand every local language spoken across the country. Three major languages dominate: Yoruba (Southwest) Igbo (Southeast) Hausa (North) If you visit any of these regions, knowing one or two phrases can win hearts instantly. Examples: “Ẹ káàbọ̀” (Yoruba for “Welcome”) “Nnoo” (Igbo for “Welcome”) “Sannu” (Hausa for “Hello”) Nigerians love it when foreigners try to speak local languages, even if you get the pronunciation wrong. 3. Nigerians Use Gestures A Lot This is excellent news for non-English speakers. You’ll notice: Friendly hand waves Pointing directions Thumbs up Hands on the chest to show gratitude Wide smiles If words fail, gestures usually fill the gap. Nigerians communicate with their whole body; you won’t feel lost. 4. Download Offline Translation Apps Before You Arrive This can save you from stress. Useful apps: Google Translate iTranslate SayHi Translate Naver Papago Google Translate works well for English and your native language, and you can download the English pack offline if you don’t have internet. 5. Nigerians are Naturally Helpful As a non-English-speaking tourist, one thing you’ll enjoy is how quickly Nigerians step in to help once they see you need something. People will: Explain things slowly Repeat sentences Use simple words Show you the way Grab someone who speaks better English. Nigerians rarely leave someone stranded. The culture encourages kindness to strangers. 6. Pidgin English Is Everywhere – And Very Easy to Pick Up Pidgin English is a simple, broken form of English that even non-English speakers can understand after a few days. Examples: “You dey okay?” = Are you fine? “Where you dey go?” = Where are you going? “E good?” = Is it sound? “I no sabi.” = I don’t understand. You don’t need grammar. Just vibes. It’s the easiest way to blend in. 7. Signs, Menus & Road Directions Are Mostly in English Since English is the official language: Airport signs → English Street signs → English. Restaurant menus → English Government buildings → English Hotel information → English But don’t worry, staff are usually happy to help explain. 8. Some Cities Are More Tourist-Friendly Than Others If you speak little or no English, Nigeria’s major cities are your best bet because they are more international. Top cities for non-English-speaking tourists: Lagos Abuja Port Harcourt Ibadan These cities have: More expats More translators More foreign-oriented restaurants Better customer service Northwestern and rural regions may be harder if you don’t speak English or Hausa, but local hospitality always steps in. 9. Learn a Few Essential Phrases Before You Travel Here are some helpful ones: In English: “Please.” “Thank you.” “I don’t understand.” “Help me.” “Where is…?” “How much?” In Nigerian Pidgin: “Abeg.” = Please “Thank you o,” = Thank you “I no understand.” = I don’t understand “Abeg help me.” = Please help me “Where e dey?” = Where is it? These tiny phrases can make your life easier. ALSO READ: Essential Yoruba, Igbo & Hausa Phrases for Travellers 10. Customer Service Staff Are Used to Foreign Tourists In airports, hotels, museums, high-end restaurants, and malls, staff are trained to communicate clearly. They may: Use simpler English Speak slowly Repeat instructions Demonstrate instead of talking. Ask a colleague if they need help.p You’ll be okay. YOU MAY LIKE: What to Wear & Expect at a Nigerian Traditional Ceremony [2025 Guide] How to Obtain Nigerian Citizenship as a Foreigner: A Simple Guide 11. Transportation Might Be Tricky Without English Ride-hailing apps like: Bolt Uber InDrive …are your best friends because you don’t need to speak, everything is written. But if you take: Tricycles (keke) Motorcycles (okada) Buses …communication might be harder. Drivers don’t always speak fluent English. Stick to apps when possible. 12. Non-English Speakers Should Avoid Complex Negotiations Places like markets require bargaining. If you don’t speak English or Pidgin well, it might get confusing. Vendors may babble or use slang when giving pricing. It’s always better to: Go with a local friend Use a tour guide Buy from supermarkets where prices are fixed. This keeps things simple and stress-free. 13. Safety Tips for Non-English Speaking Tourists Because language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, here’s how to stay safe: Avoid walking alone at night Stick to popular areas. Use ride-hailing apps Keep essential addresses written down. Don’t follow strangers into an isolated place. Ask hotel staff for guidance. Nigeria is warm and welcoming, but like every country, you should be alert. 14. Carry a Small Translation Card Write down: Your hotel name Emergency contact A few English sentences Important addresses Show it to people when needed; it helps more than you think. 15. Enjoy the Culture – Nigerians Love Visitors Nigerians love showing off their culture, food, music, and lifestyle. Even if you don’t speak English, you’ll enjoy: Afrobeats everywhere Street markets Traditional dances Nollywood movies Jollof rice and suya Lively festivals Warm conversations You may not understand every word, but you’ll feel the energy. FAQs: Non-English speaking tourists in Nigeria Is Nigeria safe for non-English speaking tourists? Yes. As long as you follow basic travel safety rules and stick to major cities, you will be fine. Nigerians are generally friendly to foreigners. Do Nigerians speak languages other than English? Yes. They speak over 500 local languages. Pidgin English is also widely used and easier for non-English speakers to understand. Can I survive in Nigeria with only a translation app? Yes. Translation apps, gestures, and friendly locals will cover most situations. Will I struggle in the local markets? Possibly. Markets involve bargaining, so it helps to go with a guide or buy from places with fixed prices. What is the best city for non-English speaking tourists? Lagos and Abuja are the easiest due to international presence and better infrastructure.