Nigeria
Money in Nigeria: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Nigerian naira for everyday cash; cards work in Lagos and Abuja hotels, malls and restaurants but keep them secure. Tip about 5‑10% of a bill or round up small amounts; adjust if service is exceptional.
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GuideNigeria
Key facts
- Currency
- Nigerian naira (NGN, ₦)
- ATM daily limitcheck
- ≈ ₦100,000 per person
- Typical tip
- 5‑10% of bill or round‑up small amounts
Currency and cash handling
The official currency is the Nigerian naira (NGN, ₦). Exchange rates fluctuate, so change money at banks or licensed bureaus. Carry small notes for tips and transport; larger bills are less useful in daily transactions.
- Buy notes in denominations of ₦500, ₦1,000, ₦2,000, ₦5,000.
- Avoid street changers; they may give counterfeit notes.
Cards and ATMs
Debit and credit cards are accepted in major hotels, malls and restaurants in Lagos and Abuja. Card fraud is reported, so keep cards in sight and enable travel alerts.
ATMs dispense up to about ₦100,000 per day and ₦500,000 per week; fees apply above those limits.
- Use ATMs inside banks for higher security.
- Notify your bank of travel to Nigeria.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, leave about 5‑10% of the bill or round up to the nearest ₦1,000. For drivers, guides and hotel staff, a small cash tip (₦500‑₦2,000) is customary.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Nigeria?
Nigeria uses the Nigerian naira (NGN, ₦). Exchange it at banks or licensed bureaus; avoid informal street changers.
Should I use cash or a card in Nigeria?
Use cash for everyday purchases and small tips. Cards work in Lagos and Abuja hotels, malls and restaurants, but keep them secure and watch for fraud.
How much should I tip in Nigeria?
Tip roughly 5‑10% of a restaurant bill or round up to the nearest ₦1,000. For drivers, guides and hotel staff, give ₦500‑₦2,000 depending on service.
Can I use US dollars in Nigeria?
US dollars are not accepted for everyday purchases. Exchange them for naira at banks or licensed bureaus. Some hotels may quote prices in dollars but expect naira payment.
Are there ATMs in smaller towns?
ATMs exist in most state capitals and larger towns, but may run out of cash or have long queues. Carry enough naira from Lagos or Abuja before travelling to rural areas.
Is card fraud common in Nigeria?
Card fraud is reported, especially at smaller merchants. Use cards only at reputable hotels, malls and restaurants, keep the card in sight, and enable travel alerts.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialCentral Bank of Nigeria
- secondaryNigeria Travel Guide – Money
Ask about Nigeria
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