The Ultimate Expat Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before Moving to Nigeria

 So, you’ve accepted an expat assignment to Nigeria – congratulations! You’re about to embark on an adventure that’s as challenging as it is rewarding. When I first landed in Lagos five years ago, I thought I had done all my homework. Spoiler alert: I hadn’t. From navigating chaotic traffic to setting up a bank account that actually worked, I learned a lot the hard way.

That’s why I put together this checklist. Whether you’re headed to Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, these ten steps will save you time, money, and a few grey hairs. Let’s dive in.

1. Secure Your Visa and Work Permit – The Right Way

This is non‑negotiable. Nigeria’s immigration rules are strict, and overstaying or having the wrong visa type can land you in serious trouble (or at the airport, unable to board your flight home).

  • What you need: A Subject to Regularization (STR) visa is the most common for expats taking up employment. Your company’s immigration lawyer usually handles this, but double‑check that the visa category matches your role.

  • My tip: Keep scanned copies of your passport data page, visa page, and arrival stamp in three places – your phone, cloud storage, and a printed copy in your carry‑on. I once met a colleague whose passport was stolen on his first day; those scans saved his sanity.

2. Get Your Health Affairs in Order

Nigeria is in a tropical zone, so your body needs to be prepared. Don’t rely on “I’ll find a doctor when I get there” – some vaccines and medications require weeks to take effect.

  • Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory – you’ll be asked for the certificate at the airport. Also consider hepatitis A & B, typhoid, meningitis, and rabies if you’ll be around animals.

  • Malaria prophylaxis: Start taking it before you travel. I recommend Malarone (fewer side effects) or doxycycline, but consult your travel doctor.

  • Medical kit: Pack a small kit with anti‑diarrhoeals, oral rehydration salts, antihistamines, and a digital thermometer. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself during your first bout of “Lagos belly.”

3. Sort Out Your Finances – Before You Land

Nigerian banks require certain documents to open an account, and the process can take weeks if you’re missing something. Meanwhile, you’ll need cash for daily expenses.

  • Notify your home bank: Tell them you’ll be in Nigeria to avoid your cards being blocked.

  • Bring enough cash: Have at least two weeks’ worth of living expenses in US dollars or euros (new, crisp notes – Nigerian bureaux de change are picky). Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs, then use official currency exchange points later.

  • International cards: Visa and Mastercard work in many hotels and supermarkets, but always have cash as backup. Also, set up a Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Payoneer account – they offer better exchange rates for transferring money internationally.

4. Arrange Accommodation – Don’t Rely on a Hotel

Hotels in Lagos can cost a small fortune, and you’ll need time to find a permanent place. Ideally, secure a short‑term rental or serviced apartment for your first month.

  • Where to look: Neighbourhoods like Ikoyi, Victoria Island, or Lekki Phase 1 are popular with expats. They have reliable electricity (relatively), good security, and proximity to supermarkets and restaurants.

  • Online research: Join expat Facebook groups (e.g., “Lagos Expats” or “Abuja Expats”) and ask for agent recommendations. Avoid paying any deposit before viewing the property in person – rental scams exist here.

  • My mistake: I once signed a lease based on photos, only to find the apartment had no running water for two weeks. Inspect everything.

5. Set Up Your Communication Toolkit

A working phone and internet connection are lifelines. Don’t wait until you arrive – you can buy a Nigerian SIM card at the airport.

  • Mobile networks: MTN has the best coverage in most cities, followed by Glo and Airtel. Buy a pay‑as‑you‑go SIM and a data plan immediately.

  • Unlock your phone: Make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use a local SIM.

  • Backup internet: If you’ll work remotely, consider getting a portable 4G router (MiFi) as a backup. Power cuts and fibre cuts happen, and having a MiFi with a different network can keep you online.

6. Understand the Local Culture – Beyond the Clichés

Nigerians are warm, hospitable, and proud of their culture. A little knowledge goes a long way in building relationships at work and in the neighbourhood.

  • Greetings matter: Always greet with a smile. Handshakes are common, but if you’re greeting an elder, you might slightly bow your head as a sign of respect. Learn a few phrases in Pidgin – “How far?” (How are you?), “I dey fine” (I’m fine), “Oya let’s go” (Let’s hurry up).

  • Time perception: “African time” is a real thing – meetings may start late, but as an expat, you should still arrive on time. Be patient, not frustrated.

  • Respect elders and titles: Use “Sir” or “Ma” when addressing someone older or in a position of authority. It’s a simple sign of respect that Nigerians appreciate.

7. Plan for the Weather and Power

Nigeria’s climate can be extreme, and public infrastructure is… let’s say, adventurous. Be prepared.

  • Weather: If you arrive during the dry season (November–March), expect harmattan dust and heat. Pack light cotton clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. In the rainy season (April–October), a sturdy umbrella and waterproof shoes are essential – streets can flood quickly.

  • Power supply: Even in good neighbourhoods, power outages (“lights out”) happen daily. Your apartment should have a backup generator or inverter. Also, buy a few power banks to keep your devices charged during outages.

8. Organise Important Documents – Originals and Copies

You’ll need certain documents for everything from opening a bank account to registering with the immigration office.

  • Must‑haves: Passport (with at least six months validity), visa, employment contract, recent passport photos (at least 10 copies – yes, ten), and your international driver’s licence if you plan to drive.

  • Notarise and apostille: If you’re bringing a marriage certificate, university degree, or professional credentials, get them notarised and apostilled in your home country before arrival – Nigerian authorities often ask for certified copies.

9. Connect with the Expat Community – Before You Go

One of the best ways to hit the ground running is to tap into the collective wisdom of those already there.

  • Social media: Join LinkedIn groups, Facebook communities (e.g., “Expat Living in Nigeria”), and WhatsApp groups. Introduce yourself and ask questions – people are generally happy to help.

  • Networking: Look for professional organisations like the American Business Council or British Business Group – they host events where you can meet other expats and locals.

  • My personal win: Before my move, I connected with a fellow expat on LinkedIn who gave me the contact of a reliable driver. That driver became my go‑to person for my first six months.

10. Prepare Your Mindset – Flexibility Is Key

Finally, the most important item on this list: expect the unexpected. Nigeria operates differently from what you’re used to, and that’s part of its charm.

  • Embrace the chaos: Things may not work as planned – flights get delayed, internet goes down, and queues can be long. Instead of getting frustrated, adopt a “go with the flow” attitude. It will save your mental health.

  • Stay curious: Explore local markets, try jollof rice, attend a wedding if you’re invited. The more you immerse yourself, the richer your experience will be.

  • Keep a journal: Document your first impressions, challenges, and wins. Later, you’ll look back and laugh at the things that once seemed impossible.

Moving to Nigeria is not just a relocation; it’s a life‑changing experience. With this checklist, you’ll be well‑prepared for the practical side of things. But remember, the real adventure begins when you step off that plane, breathe in the humid Lagos air, and let the energy of this incredible country sweep you off your feet.

Have you already moved, or are you planning your arrival? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your story!

About the author: Tunde Adebayo is an expat who has lived and worked in Lagos for over five years. He shares practical advice to help other expats navigate life in Nigeria. Follow the blog for more insider tips.

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