What are the best travel insurances for Nigeria in 2025?

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A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on July 16, 2025
Table of Contents
  • The best travel insurance plans for Nigeria
  • Is it currently safe to travel to Nigeria?
  • Travel Insurance Requirements for Nigeria
  • Why take out travel insurance for Nigeria?
  • What travel insurance for Nigeria should cover
  • The Cost of Travel Insurance for Nigeria
  • How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Nigeria
  • Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Nigeria?
  • FAQ
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Travel insurance for Nigeria: key takeaways

1. Definition: Travel insurance for Nigeria covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel disruptions.
2. Warning: The US State Department advises reconsidering travel to Nigeria due to crime and kidnapping risks.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is vital as US health plans rarely cover you in Nigeria.
4. Healthcare cost: Quality private clinics are expensive, with hospital stays often exceeding $300 per night for foreigners.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Nigeria typically costs between $30 and $60 for US travelers.
6. Good to know: Look for policies that include security or political evacuation coverage due to potential civil unrest.

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Why trust HelloSafe?

HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Nigeria.

The best travel insurance plans for Nigeria

Contract we recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium$1.1MStrong coverage for Nigeria.
- high reimbursement ceiling
- medical evacuation included
- simple claims process
Cap Assistance 24/24$1.1M24/7 support for emergencies in Nigeria.
- round-the-clock helpline
- trip cancellation cover
- no deductible
Tourist Card$550kPractical for tourists visiting Nigeria.
- robust medical cover
- emergency services
- competitive rates
Travel Pass Monde$770kBalanced option for varied types of trips.
- repatriation coverage
- hospital expenses covered
- flexible policy
Globe Partner$330kSuitable for international stays in Nigeria.
- medical treatment abroad
- repatriation
- liability coverage
Globe Traveller$550kBudget-friendly for short or low-risk trips.
- essential medical cover
- quick claim settlement
- capped limit
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts for Nigeria.
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Strong coverage for Nigeria.
- high reimbursement ceiling
- medical evacuation included
- simple claims process
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
24/7 support for emergencies in Nigeria.
- round-the-clock helpline
- trip cancellation cover
- no deductible
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
$550k
Our view
Practical for tourists visiting Nigeria.
- robust medical cover
- emergency services
- competitive rates
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
$770k
Our view
Balanced option for varied types of trips.
- repatriation coverage
- hospital expenses covered
- flexible policy
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
$330k
Our view
Suitable for international stays in Nigeria.
- medical treatment abroad
- repatriation
- liability coverage
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
$550k
Our view
Budget-friendly for short or low-risk trips.
- essential medical cover
- quick claim settlement
- capped limit
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts for Nigeria.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

Is it currently safe to travel to Nigeria?

As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises against travel to much of Nigeria due to terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime, designating the country at Level 3 with several regions at Level 4: Do Not Travel.

Here are their four main recommendations.

  • Security risks: throughout Nigeria, armed robbery, abduction, and carjacking are frequent, especially in cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt. Several states, including Borno and Kaduna, are off-limits due to terrorism and kidnapping.
  • Health risks: healthcare facilities often fall below US standards, especially outside Abuja and Lagos. Diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and Lassa fever pose significant risks, with vaccination proof mandatory for yellow fever.
  • Legal constraints: all travelers must possess a valid Nigerian visa and passport at all times. Taking photos of airports or government buildings can result in fines or arrest.
  • Cultural and environmental factors: dress modestly, especially in northern states, and observe local sensitivities during events like Ramadan. Heavy seasonal flooding can disrupt travel and access to services in the Niger and Benue River regions.

Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Nigeria.

Travel Insurance Requirements for Nigeria

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers entering Nigeria.

However, travel insurance is strongly recommended because both health and security risks are significant. Private medical care in major cities such as Lagos and Abuja can be very costly, and medical evacuation may be necessary in an emergency. International insurance can also support travelers in case of theft, accident, or unexpected illness.

According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Nigeria. This high percentage can be explained by the increased safety risks and high cost of quality healthcare.

Why take out travel insurance for Nigeria?

It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Nigeria.

In Nigeria, foreign travelers are generally treated at private medical centers like Lagoon Hospitals in Lagos or Abuja Clinics. Such facilities offer higher quality care than local hospitals, but treatment can be expensive, and payment is often required upfront. Emergency evacuation to another country may be needed for serious conditions, adding to the costs.

Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious issue.

Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Nigeria.

Example of medical treatmentCost at Lagoon HospitalsCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection1,700,000 NGN (about $1,900)up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)1,200,000 NGN (about $1,340)up to 100%
I need to be repatriated20,000,000 NGN (about $22,400)up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)4,200,000 NGN (about $4,700)up to 100%
Examples of medical costs at Lagoon Hospitals, Nigeria and travel insurance coverage
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Lagoon Hospitals
1,700,000 NGN (about $1,900)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Lagoon Hospitals
1,200,000 NGN (about $1,340)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Lagoon Hospitals
20,000,000 NGN (about $22,400)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Lagoon Hospitals
4,200,000 NGN (about $4,700)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
Examples of medical costs at Lagoon Hospitals, Nigeria and travel insurance coverage

These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.

It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.

What travel insurance for Nigeria should cover

Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Nigeria.

Main coveragesExplanations and recommendations
🏥 Medical expensesCovers hospital visits, urgent treatment, surgeries, and medications.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $200,000 due to higher evacuation and care costs.
🚑 Medical evacuationPays for air ambulance or evacuation to the US or another country if needed.
Minimum recommended coverage is $250,000.
💼 Baggage and propertyProtects against loss, theft, or damage to luggage and valuables.
Recommend a limit of $2,500 per trip.
❌ Trip cancellationReimburses prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses if canceled for covered reasons.
The coverage should at least equal your travel budget, usually $5,000 or more.
🛡️ Personal liabilityCovers legal costs or damages if you accidentally injure others or damage property.
Minimum recommended amount: $100,000.
🏨 Daily hospital cashProvides a daily allowance for each day hospitalized.
We suggest at least $50 per day, up to 10 days.
🦷 Dental emergenciesPays for unexpected dental treatments.
Recommended limit: $1,000.
🩺 Kidnap and ransom optionSome policies may cover costs from kidnapping risks, such as ransom negotiations.
For Nigeria, consider coverage if available and ensure it matches destination risk level.
Main insurance coverages and recommendations.
🏥 Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
Covers hospital visits, urgent treatment, surgeries, and medications.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $200,000 due to higher evacuation and care costs.
🚑 Medical evacuation
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for air ambulance or evacuation to the US or another country if needed.
Minimum recommended coverage is $250,000.
💼 Baggage and property
Explanations and recommendations
Protects against loss, theft, or damage to luggage and valuables.
Recommend a limit of $2,500 per trip.
❌ Trip cancellation
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses if canceled for covered reasons.
The coverage should at least equal your travel budget, usually $5,000 or more.
🛡️ Personal liability
Explanations and recommendations
Covers legal costs or damages if you accidentally injure others or damage property.
Minimum recommended amount: $100,000.
🏨 Daily hospital cash
Explanations and recommendations
Provides a daily allowance for each day hospitalized.
We suggest at least $50 per day, up to 10 days.
🦷 Dental emergencies
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for unexpected dental treatments.
Recommended limit: $1,000.
🩺 Kidnap and ransom option
Explanations and recommendations
Some policies may cover costs from kidnapping risks, such as ransom negotiations.
For Nigeria, consider coverage if available and ensure it matches destination risk level.
Main insurance coverages and recommendations.

Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards is often limited in coverage and excludes many risks, including security and evacuation. For comprehensive protection in Nigeria, choose a trusted insurer offering full coverage. Compare the top policies on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.

The Cost of Travel Insurance for Nigeria

Trip durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$48
2 weeks45 years old$87
1 month35 years old$141
1 month70 years old$238
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$48
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$87
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$141
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$238

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.

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Good to know

The price of travel insurance varies based on several key details: the traveler's age, the duration of the stay, the destination, desired coverage limits, and optional add-ons like a cancellation waiver. It's important to consider these factors to select the right policy that fits your specific trip and budget without any surprises.

💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.

👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Nigeria

Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Nigeria while keeping good coverage:

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
🛫 Trip durationThe longer you stay in Nigeria, the higher the insurance cost. Trip length directly affects price.Limit your insured trip to actual travel dates. Avoid covering unnecessary extra days to reduce costs.
👥 Traveler's ageHigher age often raises premiums. Nigeria’s healthcare costs can be significant for older travelers.Check age policies of different insurers. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62.
💰 Deductible amountA higher deductible lowers insurance premiums. Hospital visits can be expensive in Nigeria.Choose a higher deductible if you are able to pay small expenses yourself in case of incident.
🏥 Level of coverageHealthcare quality varies by region in Nigeria. Adjust coverage to ensure sufficient protection.Opt for essential medical and emergency evacuation only, avoid unnecessary add-ons to save money.
✈️ Medical evacuation inclusionEvacuation from Nigeria can be costly and sometimes necessary.Choose a policy with evacuation, but compare providers as prices and limits vary substantially.
🎒 Activities coveredSome activities, like safaris or hiking, may require special coverage due to local risks in Nigeria.Exclude adventure sports if not needed. Only include actual planned activities for better pricing.
🌎 Multi-trip vs. single-trip policyIf visiting Nigeria multiple times in a year, an annual plan may be more efficient and economical.Compare the total cost of an annual multi-trip plan with several single-trip policies if you travel often.
Key criteria for selecting travel insurance for a trip to Nigeria, with expert advice.
🛫 Trip duration
Why it matters
The longer you stay in Nigeria, the higher the insurance cost. Trip length directly affects price.
Expert tip
Limit your insured trip to actual travel dates. Avoid covering unnecessary extra days to reduce costs.
👥 Traveler's age
Why it matters
Higher age often raises premiums. Nigeria’s healthcare costs can be significant for older travelers.
Expert tip
Check age policies of different insurers. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62.
💰 Deductible amount
Why it matters
A higher deductible lowers insurance premiums. Hospital visits can be expensive in Nigeria.
Expert tip
Choose a higher deductible if you are able to pay small expenses yourself in case of incident.
🏥 Level of coverage
Why it matters
Healthcare quality varies by region in Nigeria. Adjust coverage to ensure sufficient protection.
Expert tip
Opt for essential medical and emergency evacuation only, avoid unnecessary add-ons to save money.
✈️ Medical evacuation inclusion
Why it matters
Evacuation from Nigeria can be costly and sometimes necessary.
Expert tip
Choose a policy with evacuation, but compare providers as prices and limits vary substantially.
🎒 Activities covered
Why it matters
Some activities, like safaris or hiking, may require special coverage due to local risks in Nigeria.
Expert tip
Exclude adventure sports if not needed. Only include actual planned activities for better pricing.
🌎 Multi-trip vs. single-trip policy
Why it matters
If visiting Nigeria multiple times in a year, an annual plan may be more efficient and economical.
Expert tip
Compare the total cost of an annual multi-trip plan with several single-trip policies if you travel often.
Key criteria for selecting travel insurance for a trip to Nigeria, with expert advice.
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Important

Nigeria does not require travel insurance by law for travelers from the US to enter. However, comprehensive medical and evacuation coverage is strongly recommended due to high medical risks and security concerns.

Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Nigeria?

It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health system—can protect you during a trip to Nigeria. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient for travel to countries with higher health and security risks.

Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.

Type of InsuranceValid in Nigeria?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public health insuranceNo, neverNo coverage for medical costs or evacuation outside the US.Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in healthcare, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation abroad.
Private health insuranceYes, partlySome plans offer overseas care up to $25,000, but often exclude repatriation, kidnapping, or lost items.Travel insurance can reimburse $100,000+ for emergencies and includes evacuation or security support.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover)Yes, partlyMedical fees below $5,000, and no reimbursement for kidnapping, severe emergencies, or trip interruption.Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+ medical care, evacuation, and security crisis assistance.
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige)Yes, partlyMedical fees below $25,000, limited baggage and trip delay coverage.Travel insurance offers medical limits $100,000+, higher baggage replacement, and full 24/7 crisis help.
Public health insurance
Valid in Nigeria?
No, never
What it covers
No coverage for medical costs or evacuation outside the US.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in healthcare, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation abroad.
Private health insurance
Valid in Nigeria?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Some plans offer overseas care up to $25,000, but often exclude repatriation, kidnapping, or lost items.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance can reimburse $100,000+ for emergencies and includes evacuation or security support.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover)
Valid in Nigeria?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical fees below $5,000, and no reimbursement for kidnapping, severe emergencies, or trip interruption.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+ medical care, evacuation, and security crisis assistance.
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige)
Valid in Nigeria?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical fees below $25,000, limited baggage and trip delay coverage.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance offers medical limits $100,000+, higher baggage replacement, and full 24/7 crisis help.
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Example

After a road accident in Lagos, Tunde's emergency surgery cost $9,000. His local HMO plan only covered $700, and his Verve bank card offered no medical insurance. Lacking specific travel or accident coverage, he faced an overwhelming $8,300 bill, a crippling expense for a common Nigerian risk.

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Expert advice

Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Nigeria?

Yes, U.S. citizens need a valid visa to travel to Nigeria for any purpose, including tourism, business, or transit. You should apply for your Nigerian visa well in advance of your trip through the Nigerian embassy or consulate. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Nigeria?

Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find a plan suited for travel to Nigeria. Carefully review the policy, considering coverage limits and any exclusions specific to Nigeria. Purchase your chosen plan online and you will promptly receive an insurance certificate to support your trip.

Are hospitals and medical care in Nigeria up to U.S. standards?

Medical services in Nigeria, especially outside major cities, generally do not meet U.S. standards. Emergency care and evacuation can be costly and hard to access. Health insurance that includes evacuation coverage is highly advised for travelers, as you may need to be transported to another country for serious treatment.

What risks should I consider when traveling in Nigeria?

Travelers in Nigeria face risks including violent crime, terrorism, kidnappings, and civil unrest, especially in certain states. Street crime is common, particularly in urban areas and at night. Always remain alert, avoid risky areas, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and consult current travel advisories before your trip.

Does travel insurance cover kidnapping and ransom situations in Nigeria?

Most standard travel insurance plans do not include kidnapping and ransom coverage. Specialized policies exist and may offer this benefit for an additional premium. If you have concerns about kidnapping due to your profile or the areas you plan to visit, make sure to specifically request this type of coverage from your insurer.

Is loss or theft of personal belongings covered on travel insurance in Nigeria?

Many travel insurance plans can reimburse losses due to theft or loss of personal belongings while in Nigeria, usually within set limits such as $500 to $1,500 per item. You must file a police report and submit relevant documentation to your insurer for a claim to be considered.

Do I need a visa to travel to Nigeria?

Yes, U.S. citizens need a valid visa to travel to Nigeria for any purpose, including tourism, business, or transit. You should apply for your Nigerian visa well in advance of your trip through the Nigerian embassy or consulate. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Nigeria?

Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find a plan suited for travel to Nigeria. Carefully review the policy, considering coverage limits and any exclusions specific to Nigeria. Purchase your chosen plan online and you will promptly receive an insurance certificate to support your trip.

Are hospitals and medical care in Nigeria up to U.S. standards?

Medical services in Nigeria, especially outside major cities, generally do not meet U.S. standards. Emergency care and evacuation can be costly and hard to access. Health insurance that includes evacuation coverage is highly advised for travelers, as you may need to be transported to another country for serious treatment.

What risks should I consider when traveling in Nigeria?

Travelers in Nigeria face risks including violent crime, terrorism, kidnappings, and civil unrest, especially in certain states. Street crime is common, particularly in urban areas and at night. Always remain alert, avoid risky areas, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and consult current travel advisories before your trip.

Does travel insurance cover kidnapping and ransom situations in Nigeria?

Most standard travel insurance plans do not include kidnapping and ransom coverage. Specialized policies exist and may offer this benefit for an additional premium. If you have concerns about kidnapping due to your profile or the areas you plan to visit, make sure to specifically request this type of coverage from your insurer.

Is loss or theft of personal belongings covered on travel insurance in Nigeria?

Many travel insurance plans can reimburse losses due to theft or loss of personal belongings while in Nigeria, usually within set limits such as $500 to $1,500 per item. You must file a police report and submit relevant documentation to your insurer for a claim to be considered.

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard
Insurance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.

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