Travel to Nigeria to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Nigeria?

  • Many people, many tribes, many cultures, chaos, crime, great contrasts. Nigeria is a unique country with few travelers, friendly locals, delicious varied food and cheap options for budget travelers. Yet it is not a country much recommended on a small budget. It is quite unsafe and as a backpacker you are quickly a target for crime. It is safer to visit the more expensive hotels and prepare well.
  • Activity spotting: explore Nigeria's largest city Lagos, visit Yankari National Park and spot wildlife, admire the ancient city of Benin, climb to the top of Olumo Rock, enjoy the beaches of Calabar, attend the Ilorin Grand Durbar - a three-day celebration, walk through Old Calabar, learn ceramics in Ushafa, attend an Iria ceremony in Bonny Kingdom, sip an herbal tea in Bauchi. 

Studying in Nigeria?

  • Depending on the university, education is relatively good compared to other African universities. You can choose from several fields of study, including petroleum engineering, medicine, IT, environmental sciences/ecology, agriculture, social sciences and public health. 
  • Study cities: including Lagos, Ota, Benin, Ede. 
  • Language: English. 

Internship in Nigeria?

  • You will find internship opportunities mainly with large international companies in a variety of sectors, and sometimes with international NGOs. Because Nigeria is one of the largest countries in the field of oil and gas production, there are also many internships to be found in this sector. 
  • Competencies: intercultural communication, cultural understanding and sensitivity (over 250 ethnic groups and languages!), working in a dynamic environment, effective planning and execution, networking with local and international companies, understanding different social structures and challenges. 

Volunteer in Nigeria?

  • Nigeria is a large and diverse country. You can contribute a lot while learning a lot as a volunteer. There are options for volunteering in health care, education, child care, arts and culture, women's empowerment and nature conservation. Pretty much everything in other words! 

Work in Nigeria?

  • Because of its strong (one of the strongest in Africa) economy, Nigeria is a popular country for expats. Not only is the oil and gas industry booming, but the IT, telecommunications and financial management sectors are also emerging. Most expats come to Nigeria by placement from an international company and work in the banking, telecommunications and construction sectors. 
  • The NGO sector is also popular among expats, as many organizations and UN projects use Nigeria as their main location. 

Working as a digital nomad in Nigeria?

  • Lagos, in particular, is becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads. It is a vibrant city, easily accessible, lots of business, a progressive tech sector and there are lots of beaches and parties to be found. The people are friendly and you will find a great mix of cultures. The fact that people speak English makes everything even easier. 
  • There are many coworking spots and accommodations where you can live with others, the Internet is relatively good and most of what you need can be found. Be aware of your safety though, especially as a woman alone. 

Living in Nigeria?

  • Living in Nigeria comes with quite a few challenges. It is one of the most, if not the most, densely populated country in Africa. So a lot of people, a lot of cultures, a lot of chaos. Because of that, it is beautiful, you can find good food and you can meet a lot of incredibly friendly and cordial people.
  • In the cities you can find most necessities in terms of amenities, but health care leaves much to be desired and many serious diseases are still common. Do make sure you have your own well-covered health insurance.
  • Life is relatively expensive compared to other countries. 
  • Security is one of the biggest concerns in Nigeria, especially for expats who are often targeted by criminal gangs. Make sure you live in a safe place (usually with 24-hour surveillance) and are aware of security risks and recommendations. 
Nigeria Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Nigeria Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Nigeria on WorldSupporter

How does healthcare work in Nigeria, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Nigeria, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Nigeria?

  • Nigeria's health care system continues to face infrastructure problems, staff shortages and limited resources. 
  • Nigeria has its own universal health care system, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Unfortunately, healthcare is vastly underfunded, and government money is often focused more on urban areas. The Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Program (FSSHIP) is part of this. As an expat, you can participate in this provided you are a legal resident, by paying an annual fee. 
  • Life expectancy is not very high (around 55/56 years), which is also an indication of the quality of care. 
  • Not all medicines are available in Nigeria. So make sure you bring enough medicines yourself when needed. 
  • Call 199 for emergency (medical) services, but do not expect the same help as in the West. 

How does the public health care system work in Nigeria?

  • The government operates public health facilities. These facilities focus mainly on basic care. 
  • Public health care is mainly used by locals and actually little by emigrants. 
  • Care is cheap and even free if you are a member of the NHIS, but quality is often poor, resources are limited, and there are long waiting times and infrastructure problems.
  • Also, hospitals are often unhygienic and overcrowded, causing many people to get sick and even die from diseases contracted in the hospital. 
  • Unfortunately, salaries for medical staff are also not good, sometimes leading to strikes. 

How does the private health care work in Nigeria?

  • Private clinics and hospitals offer higher quality care and are widely used by expatriates. Still, even this care may not be of the quality you want or expect.
  • Healthcare costs are significantly higher than in public hospitals, but you have better facilities, shorter waiting times and better trained medical staff. 
  • It is important to have good private health insurance that also covers medical evacuation. 

How is the doctor arranged in Nigeria?

  • General practitioners can be found in private clinics, where consultations are easy to arrange and inexpensive. 

How is the dentist arranged in Nigeria?

  • Most comprehensive dental care can be found in private clinics. Public clinics offer limited services. 
  • Dental care in private clinics is usually of good quality. You will find most options in Lagos. 
  • In coordination with your international insurance, you can look for a good dentist who can provide you with appropriate care. 

How is the prenatal and pregnancy care arranged in Nigeria?

  • Prenatal care is available, but the quality varies greatly between public and private institutions. 
  • There are many problems surrounding pregnancies in Nigeria. Maternal and infant mortality in Nigeria is relatively high and many children live malnourished and in poverty.
  • So as a foreigner, it is best to go to a private hospital and seek advice from other expats. 

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Nigeria?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Nigeria?

  • Although many expats live in Nigeria, there are still considerable security risks. So it is important to take this into account when immigrating to Nigeria. 
  • Security concerns for expats range from kidnapping to simple theft. 
  • Many expatriates live in protected communities. 
  • There is a risk of attacks in Nigeria. 
  • The government may impose curfews and other restrictions. Always be aware of these, as breaking these restrictions can lead to arrest. 
  • Be aware of local culture and rules, such as during Ramadan. 

What should you look out for in terms of safety in Nigeria?

  • Living in Nigeria means that you may also suffer from tropical diseases. Consider Malaria, typhoid, cholera and yellow fever. 
  • Malaria is a major risk. The advice is to sleep under a treated mosquito net and wear clothes that protect against mosquitoes. 
  • Diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis are also still common. 
  • Do not drink tap water and know that diarrhea is common among new residents! 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Nigeria?

  • Many accidents take place on the roads in Nigeria. 
  • Thus, driving a car can be quite dangerous. Roads are bad, standards are low and cars are often unsafe. 
  • Also, roads can be very busy, especially in Lagos. So make sure you always have plenty of water with you. 
  • Car hijackings occur, sometimes with weapons. 
  • Avoid driving in the dark as much as possible, keep windows and doors locked and make sure you don't have possessions in plain sight. 
  • There are legitimate and non-legitimate checkpoints in Nigeria. Always remain calm at such roadblocks. 

Which work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Nigeria?

  • Is the trip to Nigeria and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Nigeria if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Although insurance is only mandatory for permanent residents, as an expat it is still wise to take out international insurance to cover the cost of care and possibly medical evacuation. 
  • Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Nigeria: Updates & Travel

Nigeria: Updates & Travel

Travel in Nigeria?

  • Nigeria is Africa's most populous country with a large number of tribes and ethnic groups, making unity sometimes far away. The presence of oil has brought relative prosperity, but also a high crime rate, traffic chaos, pollution and unimaginable corruption. This does not really make the country a recommended destination. However, Nigeria does have beautiful flora and fauna and a few beautiful natural parks.
  • See the seven Olumirin waterfalls.
  • Tour a national park such as Cross River National Park, Yankari National Park and Gashaka Game Reserve.
  • Climb Chappal Wadi, Nigeria's highest mountain for stunning views.
  • Kano: Formerly the largest Hausa city, with beautiful medieval buildings and the Emir's palace.  
  • Be prepared: Nigeria is criminal and troubled.
  • A lesser point of Nigeria is pollution and corruption.

Updates Nigeria

  • More about Nigeria updates and contributions, see the link below.

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What insurance can you choose as backpacker, emigrant, expat, intern, nomad, student, volunteer or traveler abroad?

What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for activities, backpacking or travel to or from Nigeria

Advice and decision support
Insurance

What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for emigrants, expats and nomads in Nigeria

Advice and decision support
Insurance
Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance to insure your trip or vacation?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance in the event of accidents, for example, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back to your home country urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies in your home country.
  • With continuous travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are away.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you are going to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possible work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

What insurance do you need for a trip or vacation?

 

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpacking insurance and travel insurance for backpackers?

  • Backpacking insurance for backpackers means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad and is specifically intended for those who are traveling for a long time, traveling independently, or making frequent use of local transportation.

Why should you take out travel insurance specifically for backpacking?

  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage for damage and accidents during your adventurous or sporting activities.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family while backpacking.

What aspects are important to insure when backpacking abroad?

  • The duration of your trip: so that you are also covered during a very long backpacking trip, or can extend your coverage if you want to stay longer
  • The activities during your trip: so that you can also participate in all kinds of sports and adventure activities that are excluded from travel insurance
  • Coverage of your medical expenses during your trip: so that you are always covered, even if you go to work or if the costs in the event of an accident are higher than the Dutch rate
  • Coverage for natural disasters and war during your trip: so that you don't have to return home immediately with your tail between your legs every time the Dutch government issues negative travel advice
  • Your insurer's specialization: so that your insurer specializes in backpacking trips or long stays abroad, and doesn't treat you like an “all-inclusive sunglasses claimant.”

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid work abroad.

Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for paid work abroad.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally do not provide sufficient coverage to apply for a work visa or working holiday visa.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only cover stays abroad for a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that there will be no coverage for the entire travel period.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without study, internship, or work. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities, this generally means that you will no longer be covered for the entire travel period.

What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • that you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • that your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. In most countries, healthcare costs are higher than in the Netherlands.
  • that you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • that you are well insured against personal liability.
  • that you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • that you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  •  that you take care to choose the right coverage when working in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous machinery.

What insurance do you need to work abroad?

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

What insurance do you need when volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

What is an expat insurance?

  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

What is an emigration insurance, or insurance for moving and living abroad?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

When can you also live abroad for a longer period of time with travel insurance?

  • There are also special expiring travel insurance policies that provide coverage without you having valid health insurance in your home country, however, these travel insurance policies are not intended for emigration or expats, but for stays outside your home country of up to a few years, for study, temporary work, volunteer work, and longer trips.
  • See the information at International Insurances for backpacking and travel abroad

What insurance do you need for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

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Table of content

  • Why should you take out insurance through the JoHo Foundation when you go abroad?
  • Insuring activities abroad:
    • internships, studying, volunteer work or paid work
    • backpacking, holiday, travel or round the world
    • emigration, living abroad, working as expat
  • Insurances for abroad: per insurance 
  • Insurances for abroad: per organization
  • How healthcare works
......Read more on this page

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Safety and insurances in Nigeria

How does healthcare work in Nigeria, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Nigeria, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Nigeria?

  • Nigeria's health care system continues to face infrastructure problems, staff shortages and limited resources. 
  • Nigeria has its own universal health care system, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Unfortunately, healthcare is vastly underfunded, and government money is often focused more on urban areas. The Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Program (FSSHIP) is part of this. As an expat, you can participate in this provided you are a legal resident, by paying an annual fee. 
  • Life expectancy is not very high (around 55/56 years), which is also an indication of the quality of care. 
  • Not all medicines are available in Nigeria. So make sure you bring enough medicines yourself when needed. 
  • Call 199 for emergency (medical) services, but do not expect the same help as in the West. 

How does the public health care system work in Nigeria?

  • The government operates public health facilities. These facilities focus mainly on basic care. 
  • Public health care is mainly used by locals and actually little by emigrants. 
  • Care is cheap and even free if you are a member of the NHIS, but quality is often poor, resources are limited, and there are long waiting times and infrastructure problems.
  • Also, hospitals are often unhygienic and overcrowded, causing many people to get sick and even die from diseases contracted in the hospital. 
  • Unfortunately, salaries for medical staff are also not good, sometimes leading to strikes. 

How does the private health care work in Nigeria?

  • Private clinics and hospitals offer higher quality care and are widely used by expatriates. Still, even this care may not be of the quality you want or expect.
  • Healthcare costs are significantly higher than in public hospitals, but you have better facilities, shorter waiting times and better trained medical staff. 
  • It is important to have good private health insurance that also covers medical evacuation. 

How is the doctor arranged in Nigeria?

  • General practitioners can be found in private clinics, where consultations are easy to arrange and inexpensive. 

How is the dentist arranged in Nigeria?

  • Most comprehensive dental care can be found in private clinics. Public clinics offer limited services. 
  • Dental care in private clinics is usually of good quality. You will find most options in Lagos. 
  • In coordination with your international insurance, you can look for a good dentist who can provide you with appropriate care. 

How is the prenatal and pregnancy care arranged in Nigeria?

  • Prenatal care is available, but the quality varies greatly between public and private institutions. 
  • There are many problems surrounding pregnancies in Nigeria. Maternal and infant mortality in Nigeria is relatively high and many children live malnourished and in poverty.
  • So as a foreigner, it is best to go to a private hospital and seek advice from other expats. 

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Nigeria?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Nigeria?

  • Although many expats live in Nigeria, there are still considerable security risks. So it is important to take this into account when immigrating to Nigeria. 
  • Security concerns for expats range from kidnapping to simple theft. 
  • Many expatriates live in protected communities. 
  • There is a risk of attacks in Nigeria. 
  • The government may impose curfews and other restrictions. Always be aware of these, as breaking these restrictions can lead to arrest. 
  • Be aware of local culture and rules, such as during Ramadan. 

What should you look out for in terms of safety in Nigeria?

  • Living in Nigeria means that you may also suffer from tropical diseases. Consider Malaria, typhoid, cholera and yellow fever. 
  • Malaria is a major risk. The advice is to sleep under a treated mosquito net and wear clothes that protect against mosquitoes. 
  • Diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis are also still common. 
  • Do not drink tap water and know that diarrhea is common among new residents! 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Nigeria?

  • Many accidents take place on the roads in Nigeria. 
  • Thus, driving a car can be quite dangerous. Roads are bad, standards are low and cars are often unsafe. 
  • Also, roads can be very busy, especially in Lagos. So make sure you always have plenty of water with you. 
  • Car hijackings occur, sometimes with weapons. 
  • Avoid driving in the dark as much as possible, keep windows and doors locked and make sure you don't have possessions in plain sight. 
  • There are legitimate and non-legitimate checkpoints in Nigeria. Always remain calm at such roadblocks. 

Which work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Nigeria?

  • Is the trip to Nigeria and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Nigeria if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Although insurance is only mandatory for permanent residents, as an expat it is still wise to take out international insurance to cover the cost of care and possibly medical evacuation. 
  • Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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