Nigeria has made a slight improvement in its global passport ranking, moving up one position to 91st out of 199 countries, according to the Henley Passport Index for 2025.
Despite this advancement, Nigerians still face significant travel restrictions, maintaining visa-free access to only 45 countries, the same as the previous year.
Alongside Ethiopia and Myanmar, Nigeria’s ranking highlights ongoing concerns with security in these nations.
Within Africa, Nigeria ranks among the least desirable passports, above only a few countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia, down from sixth last year.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has emphasized efforts to improve the country’s international image, and mentioned ongoing negotiations for the release of wrongfully imprisoned Nigerians.
Read Also: FG Naira-for-Crude Panel to reconvene as Dangote Refinery suspends sales in local currency
However, he did not provide specific details on the strategies to enhance Nigeria’s global standing.
Following fluctuations in its ranking over the past year—falling to 97th in the global list before rebounding to 92nd last year—Nigeria’s passport status remains a subject of concern.
In contrast, Seychelles stands out as the top African passport, now ranked 22nd with access to 156 countries.
Singapore continues to hold the title for the most powerful passport globally, allowing access to 193 countries, while Afghanistan ranks at the bottom with access limited to just 25 nations.
