Nigerian travellers planning to explore more of Africa will soon have two additional visa-free destinations, as Chad and the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) prepare to abolish visa requirements for African nationals.

The new policies are expected to take effect on January 1, 2027, allowing Nigerians and other African citizens to enter both countries without obtaining an entry visa before travelling.

The move forms part of broader efforts by African governments to promote regional integration, boost tourism, strengthen trade, and make movement across the continent easier.

Chad Opens Its Borders to Africans

Chad is set to become one of Africa’s growing list of countries offering visa-free access to fellow Africans.

President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno announced in July 2026 that his government would abolish entry visa requirements for citizens of African countries beginning January 1, 2027.

Under the new policy, Nigerian passport holders will be able to travel to Chad without applying for a visa before departure.

According to the Chadian government, the decision is aimed at promoting African unity and facilitating the free movement of people and goods across the continent.

Republic of the Congo Follows Suit

The Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, has also announced plans to introduce visa-free entry for African nationals.

President Denis Sassou Nguesso made the announcement during the 2026 African Development Bank Group Annual Meetings held in Brazzaville.

From January 1, 2027, citizens of African countries, including Nigerians, will no longer require entry visas to visit the country.

However, travellers will still be expected to comply with basic administrative and security requirements before entry.

The Congolese government believes the initiative will encourage stronger regional cooperation while boosting trade, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

What It Means for Nigerians

For Nigerian passport holders, the new policies will simplify travel to both Chad and the Republic of the Congo from 2027.

Although visas will no longer be required, travellers will still need to meet any other applicable immigration and security conditions imposed by the two countries.

The development also aligns with the wider African push toward easier cross-border movement under the goals of continental integration and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).