Language
Nigeria’s official language is English, which is widely used in the business community. This is especially the case in commercial areas such as Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja. The most common indigenous languages in Nigeria are Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo. Pidgin English is widely used, particularly in Lagos, and it is recommended that visitors learn a few basic expressions.
Etiquette
Relationships are very important in the business community. Meetings usually start with a handshake, followed by a casual conversation about family, health and travel. In the predominantly Muslim north, business and leisure travellers should wait for a woman to extend her hand before offering theirs. Business discussions begin when the host initiates them.
Currency
The naira is issued in notes of five, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000. The 200, 500 and 1000 notes were replaced by redesigned ones in January 2023, but the old notes will remain valid until December 31, 2023. As of May 1, 2022, the exchange rate was N462.49:$1, N505.43:€1 and N582.82:£1. Major foreign currencies can be exchanged at the main entry points or at popular accommodations in larger cities.
Dress
Business formal is the dress code for foreigners in any type of meeting, with locals wearing either Western or traditional attire. Many Nigerians wear traditional garments at the end of the week. Appearance is generally very important and indicative of status.
Business Hours
A standard work week runs from Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm, with lunch at 1.00pm. Business hours may change during the month of Ramadan, most notably in the northern half of the country, where Islam is the predominant religion.
Communications
Nigeria’s dialling code is +234. Most people use mobile phones with pre-paid SIM cards, which cost about N100 ($0.22). Recharge cards from licensed mobile operators are easily found in major cities at informal vendors, operator shops and convenience stores. Although strained, internet access is improving and can be found in commercial centres.
Visas
The majority of visitors must obtain a visa before arrival, applying in their home country with a letter of invitation from an organisation or individual in Nigeria. Citizens of ECOWAS countries can enter and remain in Nigeria without a visa for up to three months.
Transport
While public transport is limited, yellow and private taxi services are easily accessible. A typical fare between Victoria Island and Ikoyi in Lagos costs N1000-1500 ($2.25-3.37). Smartphone applications such as Uber and Bolt have become quite popular in Lagos and are used by both locals and visitors. However, most business travellers still use a private car, which can cost N20,000-30,000 ($45-67.49) per day. Longer journeys are usually made by air, with an average trip between Lagos and Abuja costing around $200. The federal government and various states lifted Covid-19 pandemic travel restrictions in 2022, but check local rules before planning a trip for updates.
Electricity
Power supply is inconsistent in cities connected to the national grid, including Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja. As a result, most businesses and homes that can afford a backup generator use one. Nigeria has a 230-V, 50-Hz network. Two-pin EU and three-pin UK plugs are standard.
Health
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required at all entry points. Purchasing anti-malarial drugs before travel is also recommended. While there are no longer any pandemic-related travel restrictions for those coming to and from Nigeria, people arriving in the country are required to fill out a health declaration form on the Nigerian International Travel Portal. There are many private health facilities in the more populous cities.
Safety
The core business areas and expatriate neighbourhoods of Victoria Island, Ikoyi and Lekki in Lagos are much more secure than other parts of the country. Individuals can move about safely during the day if they exercise reasonable self-awareness and caution, but foreigners should try to avoid walking by themselves at night. Security is continuously improving across Lagos.
