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Living in Nigeria: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Nigeria | Expat Exchange
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Lagos, Nigeria

Living in Nigeria

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 01, 2024

Summary: People often describe life in Nigeria as vibrant and full of energy. Expats love the culture, the people, the food, and the music. The cost of living for an expat in Nigeria is relatively low, with a basic monthly budget of around $1,000 USD. The population of Nigeria is estimated to be around 206 million people, making it the most populous country in Africa. The largest cities in Nigeria are Lagos, Kano, Ibadan, Kaduna, and Abuja. The cons of living in Nigeria include the high levels of poverty, crime, and corruption. The infrastructure is also lacking in many areas, and the healthcare system is inadequate. Additionally, the political situation is often unstable, and there is a risk of terrorism.

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What do I need to know about living in Nigeria?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Nigeria, they said:

"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Nigeria before retiring, as prices can vary significantly depending on the city and region. 2. It is important to understand the local laws and regulations, as well as the cultural norms, before retiring in Nigeria. 3. Expats should also consider the availability of healthcare and medical facilities in the area they plan to retire in. 4. It is important to ensure that all necessary documents, such as visas and residence permits, are in order before retiring in Nigeria. 5. Expats should also research the security situation in the area they plan to retire in, as crime rates can vary significantly across the country. 6. Expats should also consider the availability of amenities such as banks, supermarkets, and other services before retiring in Nigeria. 7. Finally, expats should ensure that they have a reliable source of income before retiring in Nigeria," remarked one expat living in Nigeria.

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How do I meet people in Nigeria?

When we asked people living in Nigeria about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Nigeria often join clubs and activities such as golf, tennis, and sailing. Expats can also join local book clubs, art classes, and language classes. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining online forums, and attending meetups," remarked one expat living in Nigeria.

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What is life like in Nigeria?

When we asked people living in Nigeria what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Nigeria can be both exciting and challenging. The country offers a vibrant culture, friendly people, and a wide range of activities to explore. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to more affordable guesthouses. The cost of living in Nigeria is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers a wide range of job opportunities, from freelance work to full-time positions. Despite the many advantages, expats and digital nomads should be aware of the security risks in Nigeria, as crime rates are high in some areas," commented one expat who made the move to Nigeria.

Is there a lot of crime in Nigeria?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Yes, there is a significant amount of crime in Nigeria. The country has a high rate of violent crime, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking. In addition, there is a significant amount of fraud and corruption, as well as organized crime. The government has taken steps to combat these issues, but the problem remains a major concern," remarked one expat who made the move to Nigeria.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Nigeria accepting of differences?

"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Nigeria. The country is home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own language, culture, and traditions. People in Nigeria are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between different ethnic and religious groups," said one expat who made the move to Nigeria.

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What are the schools in Nigeria like?

"The American International School of Lagos (AISL) is one of the best international schools in Nigeria. Located in the heart of Lagos, AISL offers a rigorous American-style curriculum from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools. AISL also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The British International School Lagos (BISL) is another top international school in Nigeria. BISL offers a British-style curriculum from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the British Schools Overseas. BISL also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The French International School of Lagos (FISL) is a top bilingual school in Nigeria. FISL offers a French-style curriculum from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and the Council of International Schools. FISL also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," said one expat in with children at .

Is the cost of living in Nigeria high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Nigeria, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Nigeria varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of luxury items such as electronics, imported goods, and entertainment can be quite high. Additionally, the cost of utilities such as electricity and water can be quite expensive," explained one expat living in Nigeria.

"The cost of living in Nigeria varies greatly depending on the location. Generally, the cost of living is higher in the larger cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. In these cities, the cost of rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment is around $500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $800 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Nigeria can cost around $10 USD per person," commented one expat who moved to Nigeria.

What type of recreational facilities are in Nigeria?

When we asked people living in Nigeria about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Nigeria, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks provide a great place to relax and enjoy nature, while beaches offer a great place to swim and sunbathe. Sports complexes provide a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and soccer. Additionally, there are many cultural attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters, that provide entertainment and education. Finally, there are a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs that provide a great place to socialize and have fun," said one expat.

What is the weather like in Nigeria?

"The weather in Nigeria is generally hot and humid throughout the year. The rainy season typically runs from April to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in July and August. The dry season runs from November to March, with temperatures reaching their highest in March and April," said one expat living in Nigeria.

Are there good restaurants in Nigeria?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Nigeria is the Oriental Hotel in Lagos. Located in the heart of the city, the Oriental Hotel offers a wide variety of international and local cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious Nigerian dishes such as jollof rice, suya, and egusi soup. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes such as Chinese, Italian, and Mexican. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area where guests can enjoy a variety of drinks and cocktails. The Oriental Hotel is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in Nigeria is the Sheraton Lagos Hotel. Located in the heart of the city, the Sheraton Lagos Hotel offers a wide variety of international and local cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious Nigerian dishes such as jollof rice, suya, and egusi soup. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes such as Chinese, Italian, and Mexican. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area where guests can enjoy a variety of drinks and cocktails. The Sheraton Lagos Hotel is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The Radisson Blu Hotel in Abuja is also a popular restaurant in Nigeria. The Radisson Blu Hotel offers a wide variety of international and local cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious Nigerian dishes such as jollof rice, suya, and egusi soup. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes such as Chinese, Italian, and Mexican. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area where guests can enjoy a variety of drinks and cocktails. The Radisson Blu Hotel is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," wrote one expat living in Nigeria.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Nigeria?

"People living in Nigeria typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, some people may purchase items from street vendors or small shops," commented one expat living in Nigeria.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Nigeria?

"In order to visit Nigeria, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Nigeria, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. Applicants may also be required to provide proof of employment, proof of financial stability, and a medical certificate. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residency permit," said an expat in Nigeria.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Nigeria?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Nigeria can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by a government-sponsored health insurance plan. Private health insurance plans can be costly, and the cost of medical care can be prohibitively expensive for many people. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Nigeria is often lower than in other countries, making it difficult to access quality care. Furthermore, the cost of medications and treatments can be high, and many people are unable to afford them," remarked one expat in Nigeria.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Lagos, Nigeria

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