Essential info for Nigeria
Time: The local time in Nigeria is GMT +1.
Electricity: Nigeria’s electrical current is 230 volts, 50 Hz, and round and square three-pin plugs are used in the country. Expats should note that Nigeria’s power supply is unstable, and unscheduled black-outs are common.
Language: Expats from English-speaking countries will be pleased to know that English is the official language in Nigeria and is widely used, but many other languages are also spoken.
Safety: Expats planning on relocating to Nigeria should be concerned about their safety, and should be sure to take appropriate precautions. Murder, kidnappings, robbery, carjacking, burglary, and financial fraud have all been reported.
Specifically, in the Niger Delta region, including Port Harcourt, the number of kidnappings and takeovers of western facilities has increased since 2009. For this reason, many foreign governments strongly advise against travel to these oil-rich areas.
Lagos, on the other hand, is like any other big city, and petty crime exists, but violent street crime, armed robberies, muggings and carjackings are on the rise there too.
Despite the gravity of the aforementioned crimes, most expats are more likely to be the victims of financial scams or fraud; foreigners should be especially vigilant of their finances while living in Nigeria.
Additionally, it’s important to note that ethnic tensions can very often lead to civil unrest and strikes are common, disrupting public transport and other services. Expats are urged to make sure they have reliable cars of their own, as the public transport system can be extremely dangerous, with buses and taxis poorly maintained.
Foreigners should address Nigerians by their surnames unless they know them well.
Ever heard of ‘African time’? In Nigeria, time is not an issue and being 'on time' to a Nigerian could easily be a couple of hours after an agreed start-time. This includes social events, too. Expats should also note that photography in airports may lead to arrest, and that homosexuality is illegal in this Muslim country.
Payment in Nigeria is not always prompt, thus a company told they will receive payment 'next week' could realistically receive it the week after that, or even the week after that, which gets really tricky if there are suppliers to pay.
Business suits are the norm for both men and women. Business can be slow in Nigeria due to the bureaucracy involved, and expats will have to learn to exercise some patience. Business hours are usually Monday to Friday from 8am to 12.30pm, and 2pm to 4.30pm.
Communications: Expats living in Nigeria should note that the international outgoing code is 009, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00927 for South Africa), while the country code for Nigeria is +234. GSM 900 and 1800 mobile phone networks cover Lagos, Abuja and some other major towns, and Internet cafes can be found in major cities.
