When to go
The best time to visit Nigeria is winter, from
November to February, and in particular, the months of January and February, which are the driest and sunniest of the year. It is true that it can get hot during the day almost everywhere, and especially in the center and north, while it can even get cold at night in the far north, and sometimes the Harmattan can bring sand and dust storms, but at least, you avoid the scorching heat of the period from February to May as well as the summer rains.
Already in November, you can find this kind of hot and dry weather, except in the south-east (see Calabar), where it still rains.
The weather in February is similar as well, but very hot days start to be more frequent in inland areas, at some distance from the sea.
What to pack
In
winter: in the north, Jos and Abuja, bring light clothes for the day, long and made of natural fibers (cotton or linen), a desert turban for the wind-borne sand and dust, a jacket and a sweater for the evening, and comfortable and breathable shoes. In the south and in Lagos, bring light clothing, a light sweater for the evening and for air conditioned places, and a light scarf for the wind full of dust.
In
summer: bring lightweight clothing of natural fabrics (cotton or linen), a light raincoat or umbrella for the rain. In Jos, you can add a sweatshirt and a light jacket. It's better for women to avoid shorts and miniskirts, especially in the north.
Back to the climate of
Nigeria