The Nigerian passport has achieved its highest global ranking in five years, securing the 88th position out of 199 countries in the latest Henley Passport Index, released on July 18, 2025.
This marks a significant improvement from its 91st position in January 2025 and 92nd in July 2024.
Despite this progress, Nigerian passport holders still face restricted travel freedom, with visa-free access to only 45 countries.
Nigeria now shares the 88th spot with Ethiopia and Myanmar, a step up from its 97th ranking last year, which placed it below several African nations, including Cameroon, Liberia, and Burundi.
The Henley Passport Index, based on data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), highlights Nigeria’s gradual improvement from its 2022 ranking of 98th and a low of 103rd in 2021.
However, the Nigerian passport remains among the least powerful in Africa, surpassing only six countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sudan, Eritrea, Libya, and Somalia.
Across the continent, Seychelles continues to lead as Africa’s most powerful passport, though it dropped to 24th globally with access to 156 countries, down from 22nd in March.
Globally, Singapore retains its title as the world’s most powerful passport, offering visa-free entry to 193 countries, while Afghanistan ranks last with access to just 25 countries.
The Henley Passport Index underscores the impact of diplomatic relations on global mobility, with Nigeria’s modest gains signaling potential for further progress in enhancing travel freedom for its citizens.
