The Nigerian passport has reached its highest position in five years, climbing to 88th out of 199 countries in the Henley Passport Index released on July 18.
The Nigerian passport has reached its highest position in five years, climbing to 88th out of 199 countries in the Henley Passport Index released on July 18. The index uses data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA) to assess global passport strength.
Nigeria now shares the 88th spot with Ethiopia and Myanmar, up from its 91st position earlier this year. However, the passport still offers visa-free access to just 45 countries—similar to last year’s access level when it ranked 92nd.
In 2023, Nigeria fell as low as 97th after initially being placed 90th. It was ranked 98th in 2022 and 103rd in 2021. Presently, only six African countries rank lower: DRC, South Sudan, Sudan, Eritrea, Libya, and Somalia.
Seychelles remains Africa’s top passport, though its global rank dropped from 22nd in March to 24th. Singapore retained its number one spot with access to 193 nations. Afghanistan ranks last. The U.S., once top in 2014, now sits at 10th.