Comparing Nigerian passport with American passport is like comparing heaven to hell—-Fayose
Isaac Fayose, a Nigerian businessman and brother to former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, recently made headlines with his stark comparison between American and Nigerian passports, describing it as akin to “comparing heaven to hell.”
This statement underscores the frustrations many Nigerians face regarding the limitations and challenges associated with the Nigerian passport.
The Nigerian passport ranks low in global mobility, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 66 countries, placing it 91st worldwide according to the Visa Restrictions Index . Obtaining or renewing a Nigerian passport can be fraught with difficulties, including bureaucratic delays, corruption, and logistical issues. Reports highlight instances where applicants face extortion, with officials demanding extra fees for expedited services, and delays attributed to shortages of passport booklets
In contrast, the American passport is one of the most powerful globally, granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. The process of obtaining or renewing an American passport is generally streamlined, with efficient systems in place. The perception of the American passport as a “passport to heaven” is prevalent among many Nigerians, symbolizing opportunities, freedom, and a higher quality of life
