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Nigerian Passport Ranks Higher In Global Index, But Still Lags Behind ECOWAS Neighbors

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In the latest global passport ranking index, the Nigerian passport has climbed nine places higher, securing the 91st position out of 199 countries and 227 travel destinations studied.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Despite this improvement, the Nigerian passport remains at the bottom of the list among the 15 countries in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)….CONTINUE READING

The recent Henley Passport Index for Q2 2023 revealed that the Nigerian passport’s higher ranking is primarily due to other nations losing ground in their earlier positions, rather than significant advancements in the Nigerian passport’s strength.

The number of countries accessible to Nigerian passport holders without visas or with visa-on-arrival remains at 46.

As of June 2022, Nigerian passport holders had visa-free access to only 25 countries, which increased to 45 destinations when considering visa-on-arrival or e-visa programs.

Experts, including the CEO of Henley & Partners, Dr. Juerg Steffen, emphasized that factors such as reciprocity, economic and sociopolitical stability, and tourism play crucial roles in passport rankings.

The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Anthony Akuneme, highlighted that more beneficial bilateral agreements with other countries could open doors for Nigerians, enhancing passport privileges.

However, former Nigerian Ambassador to Singapore, Ogbole Amedu-Odeb, pointed out that addressing drug-related crimes perpetrated by Nigerians abroad and improving the country’s economic performance are essential steps in elevating Nigeria’s passport strength and global standing.

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