It has been revealed in this article, some untold benefits of having a Nigerian passport.
For Nigerian citizens, their passport is more than just a travel document.
However, most people are no awared of these benefits
Below are benefits of being a Nigerian passport holder:
1. Personal Travel Allowance (PTA)
This is a facility available in most Nigerian commercial banks that allows you to purchase US Dollars over the counter, at the bank rate for the purpose of personal spending when you travel.
You may be required by the bank to show evidence of your ticket booking and perhaps visa.
We used to be able to get it instantly over the counter, but these days, you may need to apply 3-4 weeks in advance.
2. International Scholarships
I do not have the finer details but some State Governments, Government Agencies, Oil Companies and other multinationals offer international scholarships to indigent students of select host communities, Local Governments, States and sometimes the entire country, Nigeria.
3. Dual/Multiple Citizenships
Nigeria is one of the countries in the world that allows you to hold the Nigerian passport and simultaneously hold others you wish to.
If you’ve lived all your life in Nigeria, you may think this is ‘normal’, but no, it’s not.
Some notable countries do not allow this. You must renounce one citizenship before taking up another.
A good number of developed and developing countries still do not allow dual citizenship.
Nigeria gives you that freedom, so if you have the means and opportunity to acquire other citizenships, feel free.
4. Foreign Currency (Domiciliary Accounts)
It’s almost a taboo in most countries to hold a local bank account in foreign currency.
In Nigeria, despite the current shortages, you can open foreign currency (domiciliary) accounts in Pounds, Euro and US Dollars and receive funds there via bank wire transfers.
We have enjoyed this facility for many years, though I do not know how much longer our Central bank can keep it going.
5. Visa-free Access to ECOWAS
Nigerian passport holders can visit all countries in the ECOWAS bloc without applying for a visa.
For those who skipped Social Studies, ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) is like a WhatsApp group for all countries in the West Africa region – Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Benin Republic, Togo, The Gambia, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, Cabo Verde, Mali, Niger, Guinea, Guinea Bissau and Cote d’Ivoire.
These countries may not be wealthy per se, but acquiring visas to these destinations can be quite difficult or bureaucratic for other non-ECOWAS nationals.
If you hold a Nigerian passport however, just pack your luggage and catch a flight.
You’re covered.
6. Consular Assistance and Protection
Nigerian passport holders are entitled to consular assistance and protection from Nigerian embassies and consulates worldwide.
This support includes assistance in emergencies, such as during natural disasters, political unrest, or personal crises. Consular services can also aid in legal matters, document verification, and repatriation.
Having access to consular assistance provides Nigerian passport holders with a safety net while traveling or residing abroad, ensuring that they have support from their home country when needed.
7. Ease of International Business and Investment
A Nigerian passport can be a valuable asset for entrepreneurs and business professionals. Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies, and holding a Nigerian passport can facilitate easier entry into global markets for business and trade.
The passport provides access to international business hubs and fosters connections with other nations, enabling business owners and investors to explore new markets and expand their ventures more effectively.
This article is not intended to be an exhaustive list of the advantages of a Nigerian citizenship. There are other unadvertised benefits
