Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The latest Henley Passport Index has ranked Nigeria’s passport 94th out of 199 countries, highlighting the country’s persistent challenges in global mobility. According to the ranking, holders of Nigerian passports can access only 46 destinations around the globe without a visa.
This limited visa-free travel opportunity reflects Nigeria’s poor ranking among the most powerful passports, hindering the travel aspirations of many Nigerians.
The Henley Passport Index is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and assesses the number of destinations that passport holders can access without a prior visa.
While Nigeria struggles with restricted mobility, Singapore tops the list, granting its citizens visa-free access to 195 destinations. European nations like France, Germany, and Italy also rank high, offering their citizens access to 192 destinations.
The report highlights growing disparities in global mobility, with nations like the United Arab Emirates climbing the ranks through robust diplomatic engagements.
“The gap between powerful and weak passports is widening, and countries like Nigeria must address this issue to enhance their citizens’ travel opportunities,” the report noted. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, emphasized the need for a fundamental rethink of citizenship and its birthright lottery.
“The need to introduce free global cities to harness the untapped potential of displaced people and other migrants, transforming them from victims of circumstance into architects of their futures has never been more pressing or apparent,” Dr. Kaelin said.
As Nigeria grapples with its limited global mobility, analysts said the country must address this issue to enhance the travel opportunities and overall quality of life for its citizens.
