Nigerian passport holders are set to gain visa-free access to Chad and the Republic of the Congo starting 1 January 2027, following policy announcements by the respective governments of both African nations.
The bilateral agreements aim to ease travel restrictions, enhance regional integration, and boost cross-border trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the two Central African countries. Under the upcoming framework, Nigerian citizens travelling for short visits will be permitted entry through land and air borders without acquiring a visa prior to departure.
The initiative aligns with broader continental efforts under the African Union (AU) to promote the free movement of persons, goods, and services across African borders. Officials from both host nations indicated that implementation guidelines and entry protocols will be finalized and communicated to immigration authorities ahead of the January 2027 effective date.
Currently, Nigerian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 40 countries, mostly within West Africa and select island nations. The inclusion of Chad and the Republic of the Congo expands mobility options for Nigerian business owners, tourists, and diplomatic travellers across the Central African sub-region.
