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Japa: 7 Important Travel Documents Every Nigerian Needs
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Traveling abroad is an exciting experience, but without the right documents, your travel could end before it even begins.
Whether you’re heading out for vacation, business, studies, or relocation, having the proper paperwork is crucial to avoid delays, deportation, or outright denial of entry. Different countries have different entry requirements, so it’s important to plan ahead and ensure all necessary documents are in place.
For Nigerian travelers, certain travel documents are mandatory regardless of the destination, while others depend on the purpose of travel and the country’s visa policies.
Here are seven essential travel documents needed for international trips:
International Passport
Your Nigerian international passport is the most important document for international travel. Issued by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), it serves as your official identification abroad. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before your travel date, as many countries enforce this rule. Without a valid passport, you won’t be able to leave Nigeria or gain entry into another country.
Visa (If Required)
A visa grants you permission to enter a foreign country, but it is not always needed. Some destinations offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for Nigerian passport holders. Before traveling, check the visa requirements of your destination country and apply in advance if necessary.
Vaccination Certificates
Many countries require proof of vaccination against certain diseases, especially COVID-19 and yellow fever. These certificates are issued by the Nigerian Port Health Service and are essential for entry into several destinations. Without them, you may be denied boarding or entry.
Hotel/Accommodation Confirmation
Immigration officers often ask for proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host if you’re staying with family or friends. Having this document readily available can make immigration clearance smoother.
Proof of Funds
To ensure that travelers can sustain themselves financially during their stay, many countries require proof of funds. This can be in the form of:
Bank statements (covering the last 3-6 months)
Sponsorship letters (if someone else is funding your trip)
Proof of employment or business ownership
Work or Study Documents (If Applicable)
If you are traveling for work or study, additional documentation is required, such as:
A work permit or employment contract for job-related travel.
An admission letter and a valid student visa for study abroad programs
Return Ticket & Travel Insurance
Many countries require proof of a return or onward ticket to ensure that travelers do not overstay their visa. Travel insurance, while not always mandatory, is highly recommended as it provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, giving you peace of mind during your journey.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Suspected gunmen abducted a landlord and his daughter in the Ijede area of Ikorodu in Lagos.
In a statement on Sunday, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos police spokesperson, said the kidnappers abducted the victims on Wednesday.
Hundeyin added that on Saturday, the command rescued the kidnapped victims unhurt and handed them over to their family members.
According to the police spokesperson, the command has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
“The police received information that some kidnappers invaded Ijede community and kidnapped two persons,” the statement reads.
“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives were mobilised to the scene where it was observed that the kidnappers forcefully gained entrance into the house of a 40-year-old man, killed the security dog and kidnapped him.
“The kidnappers equally forced their way into the nearby house and kidnapped the landlord’s 25-year-old daughter.
“With the collaborative efforts of both the police joint task force and other stakeholders, the kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt and handed over to their family members.
“The area is relatively calm and being closely monitored, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the wanted suspects.”
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
President Bola Tinubu has approved the extension of the tenure of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, until December 31, 2026.
Nandap, who joined the NIS on October 9, 1989, was appointed as Comptroller-General on March 1, 2024, with an initial tenure set to end on August 31, 2025.
A statement by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, said Tinubu commended Nandap for her leadership, noting improvements in border management, immigration modernisation, and national security under her watch.
“Under her leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service has witnessed significant advancements in its core mandate, with notable improvements in border management, modernisation of immigration processes and national security measures.
“President Tinubu commended the Comptroller-General for her exemplary leadership and urged her to continue dedicating herself to the Service’s strategic priorities, which align with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement read.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the NIS in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and ensuring safe and legal migration.
Tragedy strikes the entertainment world as American actor and singer, Richard Chamberlain, passes away, leaving an Irreparable void.
According to reports, the renowned actor passed away prior to his 91st birthday, following complications from a stroke.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans and industry colleagues alike, as they mourn the loss of a beloved talent and celebrate his enduring legacy.
Moreover, tributes have flooded social media, with many remembering Chamberlain’s iconic roles in ‘Dr. Kildare,’ ‘Shōgun,’ and ‘The Thorn Birds.
His contributions to the entertainment industry and his lasting impact on audiences worldwide are being widely acknowledged.
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