Nigeria’s passport has climbed to the 88th position in the latest Henley Passport Index, released on July 18, 2025 — its highest placement in five years.
The country now ranks 88th out of 199 globally, marking a steady rise from 91st in January 2025 and 92nd in July 2024.
Despite the upward trajectory, Nigerian passport holders continue to experience limited travel access, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to only 45 destinations.
Nigeria now shares the 88th spot with Ethiopia, Myanmar — an improvement from 97th last year, when it trailed countries like Cameroon, Liberia, Burundi.
According to the Henley Passport Index, which is based on data from the International Air Transport Authority, IATA, Nigeria has steadily progressed from 98th in 2022, and 103rd in 2021. Still, the Nigerian passport remains one of the weakest in Africa, ranking above only six countries — Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sudan, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia.
On the continent, Seychelles continues to hold the title of Africa’s strongest passport, although it dropped from 22nd to 24th globally, offering access to 156 destinations.
At the global level, Singapore maintains its top position, with its passport granting visa-free access to 193 countries. Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the index, with access to only 25 countries.
The Henley Passport Index emphasizes the role of diplomatic relations in shaping international mobility, noting that “Nigeria’s modest gains” reflect “potential for further progress in enhancing travel freedom for its citizens.”
