INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS
Be aware that many schools throughout Nigeria have ‘ International ’ in their name but are nothing whatsoever to do with International Schools suitable for expatriates !
Most International School curricula in Nigeria follow the British , American or International Baccalaureate standards . They are equipped with state-of- the-art facilities , and offer a healthy choice of extra-curricular activities .
Although some International Schools may follow the format of the school year in their home country , the school year in Nigeria runs from January to December , and is divided into three semesters
School Places are extremely limited and early application is essential
The school day in Nigeria runs roughly between 8am and 3pm ; timetables are subject to changes according to age level and institution
GETTING AROUND
Driving can be treacherous ; a driver service is preferable and is included in many comp and benefits packages
There is public transport in Nigeria , but , generally , deemed as unsafe , unreliable and absolutely not recommended for expats
Foreign drivers licenses are not recognized in Nigeria and foreigners are required to have a Nigerian drivers license
Be sure to secure your International Driving License prior to arrival International Schools do not provide a bus service so either parents drive or hire a driver service
COMMUNICATION WITH THE ‘ OUTSIDE WORLD ’
Fixed telephone lines are rare as they are unreliable , however the country has a strong and growing mobile network . Established brands such as MTN , Vodacom , Globacom , Airtel and Etisalat offer cell / mobile services however ‘ Pay As You Go ’ contracts are not easy to obtain .
Internet infrastructure development is on the rise , increasing connectivity , however it is a far reach from first world standards and service often fails , sometimes remaining ‘ down ’ for days at a time .
UTILITIES
Electricity is sold on a pre-paid basis , making it easy to use . However power outages are common and a standby generator essential to support the expat expected lifestyle
Water supply is nonexistent and a water borehole is essential , the option being regular water deliveries from a reputable supplier
Water consumption and Electricity costs are typically included in the complex / compound service charge of what are called ‘ serviced apartments ’
‘ Multichoice ’ DSTV is the most popular satellite TV option presently
SOCIAL AND FREE TIME
• Active women ' s groups
• Schools - Active family events
• Mothers & Toddlers groups for expats
• A growing choice of international restaurants & Bars
• Expatriate Groups and Social Clubs
• Sporting clubs ( Lagos boasts a Golf club , Motorboat club and a Yacht club , although membership is very difficult without connections and an introduction )
EXPAT HEALTH CONCERNS
Malaria risk is high throughout the year in all areas and due precautions must be taken . Nigeria had isolated cases of Ebola during the 2014 / 15 epidemic that spread through West Africa but was not hit in the same way as neighboring Guinea or Sierra Leone - According to the WHO , 20 cases and 8 deaths were confirmed and the country has been declared Ebola free .