Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Nigeria
NGNNaira
Money in Nigeria
Mixed: cards and cash Card and transfer payments are common in Lagos and Abuja; cash is needed for markets, buses and small vendors. Cash shortages and POS fees occur. US$1 ≈ ₦1,330.64 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: 10% is normal in sit-down restaurants if no service charge is added; small tips for porters and drivers.
- ATMs: Limits are often 20,000–100,000 NGN per withdrawal; foreign cards may be declined, so carry a second card and some USD.
- Paying by phone: Local bank transfers and POS terminals dominate; foreign Apple/Google Pay is rarely accepted. Opay and Moniepoint need a Nigerian bank account.
- Price level: about 13% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards and bank transfers are common in malls and restaurants; cash for markets, buses and small vendors. POS fees and shortages occur. |
| Abuja | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards and transfers work in malls and restaurants; cash for markets, buses and small vendors. POS fees and shortages occur. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Nigeria?
10% is normal in sit-down restaurants if no service charge is added; small tips for porters and drivers.
Is Nigeria cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. Card and transfer payments are common in Lagos and Abuja; cash is needed for markets, buses and small vendors. Cash shortages and POS fees occur.
What currency does Nigeria use?
The Naira (NGN). US$1 ≈ ₦1,330.64 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- Nigeria Immigration Service e-visa portal
- Nigeria Immigration Service
- Speedtest Global Index: Nigeria
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.