Nigeria — Africa's largest economy and most populous country — is a major destination for Kenyan travellers, especially business and diaspora visits. E-visa online in 3–7 days. Kenya Airways flies Nairobi–Lagos direct. YF certificate MANDATORY. Lagos is one of Africa's most electrifying cities — overwhelming, entrepreneurial, and extraordinary.
Key Warnings
Yellow fever certificate is NON-NEGOTIABLE for Kenyans entering Nigeria. Airlines will check at NBO and Lagos immigration will refuse entry. Have your yellow card ready at all times.
Lagos is one of Africa's most congested cities — allow 2–3x longer for any journey during peak hours. Book hotels in the Victoria Island or Lekki area to minimize traffic exposure in the business/tourist district.
Be aware of Nigeria's reputation for scams (advance-fee fraud, 'too good to be true' business opportunities). Only engage through verified contacts, and don't travel for unverified business invitations.
Insider Tips
Kenya Airways flies direct Nairobi (NBO) to Lagos (LOS) — one of the most important African inter-city routes. Book early as the flight is popular with business travellers. Flight time: ~5.5 hours.
Lagos Muri Okunola Park and Lekki Conservation Centre (a boardwalk through the world's longest canopy walkway above a wildlife conservation area) are surprisingly good city breaks from Lagos's intensity.
Suya (spiced skewered meat) from a roadside suya spot at night is one of Lagos's great food experiences — ask a local for their recommended spot. Buka restaurants (local canteen-style) serve excellent Nigerian staples: jollof rice, pounded yam, egusi soup, pepper soup.
Step-by-Step Guide
Get your yellow fever vaccination
Visit a Kenya Ministry of Health-approved vaccination centre (KEMRI, Kenyatta National Hospital). Yellow card must be at least 10 days old.
Apply online at portal.immigration.gov.ng
Complete the e-visa application, upload passport scan, photo, and YF certificate. Provide contact in Nigeria and accommodation address. Pay USD 100 by card.
Wait 3–10 business days
Visa approval emailed. Print and carry both the approval and your physical passport.
Book Kenya Airways NBO→LOS
Kenya Airways operates direct flights from Nairobi (NBO) to Lagos (LOS) — one of Africa's best inter-continental connections. Flight time: approximately 5–6 hours. Also serves Abuja (ABV) via connections.
Explore Nigeria
Lagos (Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, Lekki, Balogun Market), Abuja (Aso Rock, National Mosque, Jabi Lake), Calabar (Cross River, eco-tourism), Ibadan (Cocoa House, Bower's Tower), and Benin City (Benin Bronzes cultural history).
Hotel booking or Nigerian host's address and contact
Bank statements or proof of funds
Recommended (Optional)
Invitation letter from Nigerian contact (helpful for business or family visits)
Employment letter (useful for business purpose applications)
Health Requirements
⚠️ Yellow Fever Certificate required. Nigeria is a yellow fever endemic country and MANDATES a yellow fever certificate from travellers arriving from countries with risk of YF transmission, including Kenya. Airlines check at boarding. Nigerian immigration can refuse entry without it. Obtain from a Kenya Ministry of Health-approved centre — certificate must be at least 10 days old.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Kenyans need a visa for Nigeria?
Yes — Kenyans need a Nigerian visa. Apply online at portal.immigration.gov.ng (e-visa, USD 100, ~KES 13,700). Processing: 3–7 business days. Stay: 30 days. Yellow fever certificate MANDATORY. Kenya Airways flies Nairobi–Lagos direct (~5.5 hours).
How do Kenyans fly to Nigeria?
Kenya Airways operates direct flights from Nairobi (NBO) to Lagos (LOS) — one of Africa's best inter-city routes. Flight time is approximately 5.5 hours. You can also connect to Abuja (ABV) via Lagos. Ethiopian Airlines flies NBO–LOS via Addis as an alternative.
Apply online 10+ days before travel. Approval sent to email. Print visa approval for presentation at Lagos (LOS) or Abuja (ABV) immigration. Also apply via Nigerian High Commission Nairobi if preferred.