Travel creator Amaka has shared crucial advice for Nigerians preparing for their first international trip, covering immigration interviews, airport checks, dressing, and building communities abroad. Speaking on Pulse Nigeria's "Pulse Creators as Experts" show, she emphasized that proper preparation can significantly ease the travel experience, especially when visiting countries where Nigerians are few.
Immigration Questions: Stay Calm and Confident
Amaka advised that immigration officers will likely ask questions, and travellers must respond calmly. She listed typical questions: destination, who they are staying with, return ticket availability, trip plans, and who is funding the journey. "It may feel like a visa interview but trust me, standard procedure," she said.
She stressed that appearing nervous can create unnecessary suspicion. "Nervousness reads as suspicion even when you've done absolutely nothing wrong. Try to remain calm, communicate confidently and state exactly what you're going to do in the country," Amaka added.
Extra Airport Checks: Not the End of the World
Amaka addressed the reality of being pulled aside for additional screening. "It's not the end of the world if you get pulled aside for extra checks," she said. She noted that some passport holders experience this more often, but travellers should stay respectful and confident. "Stay calm, answer confidently, don't fidget, you have done nothing wrong. Most likely you'll make it out on the other side," she advised.
She also encouraged documenting situations if checks go beyond what is expected.
Dressing and Finding Community Abroad
Amaka highlighted that appearance influences first impressions. "I know this sounds shallow but I promise you, how you dress can affect how you're treated on your trip," she said, urging Nigerians to choose comfortable, neat outfits that represent them well.
For those travelling alone, she recommended connecting with Nigerian and African communities before arrival. "Find communities on WhatsApp or social media that could point you in the direction of where to eat, where to stay and places to go," she said.
Nigerian Passport: A Starting Point, Not a Barrier
Amaka addressed frustrations with the Nigerian passport. "Your Nigerian passport is just the starting point, it's not a limitation," she said. While some processes may take longer than for travellers with stronger passports, she insisted that with proper planning, Nigerians can explore the world. "Yes, the doors may not open as quickly as they do for others... but if you care about travel, you can travel on this passport too. Take it from me, I'm living proof," she added.
She concluded by encouraging Nigerians to share their travel experiences and tips with others preparing for their first international trips.
