According to the latest report by the Henley Passport Index, the Nigerian passport has been identified as one of the least powerful passports globally, ranking fifth-worst in Africa. Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria finds itself at a disappointing 90th position in the worldwide passport rating, offering visa-free access to only 46 out of 227 destinations worldwide.

The Henley Passport Index, which relies on data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), assesses passports based on the number of destinations their holders can visit without requiring a visa. Countries receive higher scores if their passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to numerous destinations.

Nigeria shares the 90th spot with South Sudan, while Congo secures the 91st position. Eritrea and Sudan follow closely, ranked 92nd, with Libya trailing at 95th place. Regrettably, Somalia ranks last, coming in at the 99th spot.

The decline in the Nigerian passport’s ranking has been evident in recent years. In July 2021, the passport was positioned at 101 out of 199 countries, dropping six places from its 2020 standing. Unfortunately, its integrity further deteriorated later that year, as reported by Henley & Partners.

In January of the same year, the Nigerian passport received the unenviable title of the 20th worst-performing travel document globally for the third consecutive time, according to the Henley Passport Index.

Despite claims by the then interior minister, Rauf Aregbesola, in May, that the Nigerian passport was among the best in the world, the reality of its rankings paints a different picture. Nigeria has consistently faced poor passport rankings since 2006.

As Nigerians aspire for greater travel opportunities and ease of mobility, the government faces the challenge of improving passport strength to enhance international access for its citizens.

Source: Peoples Gazette