Markets are the most interesting places to shop. Special purchases include
adire (patterned, indigo-dyed cloth),
batiks and pottery from the southwest, leatherwork and
kaduna cotton from the north and carvings from the east. Designs vary greatly, many towns having their own distinctive style. Other purchases include herbs, beadwork, basketry and
ceremonial masks such as those of the Ekpo.
Shopping hours Mon-Fri 0800-1700, Sat 0800-1630.
Currency Information:CurrencyNaira (NGN; symbol ₦)
= 100 kobo. Notes are in denominations of ₦500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of ₦1 and kobo 25, 10, 5 and 1.
Currency ExchangeThe government of Nigeria has fixed an artificially high rate for local currency (the Naira) in terms of its value in exchange for foreign currencies. However, trading on the black market is extremely dangerous and could lead to arrest. Therefore, visitors are advised to exchange currency at the official rate and at approved exchange facilities, which often include major hotels. Inter-bank transfers are frequently difficult, if not impossible, to accomplish.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAmerican Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are rarely accepted in Nigeria and, because of the prevalence of credit card fraud, their use is ill-advised.
Traveller's ChequesFacilities for changing traveller's cheques are limited to Abuja and larger towns.
Currency RestrictionsRestrictions apply.
Banking HoursMon 0800-1500, Tue-Fri 0800-1330.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | ₦202.98 |
| $1.00= | ₦137.05 |
| €1.00= | ₦186.11 |
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