After my first trip to the U.S from Nigeria to visit my sister, I knew something had to be done about my SIM issue and data connection.
I landed at the airport and wanted to text my family back home to update them. That was when I saw I had no service. Then I tried roaming, which worked, but the bill that followed taught me a lesson I’ll never forget.
I didn’t even try buying a physical SIM card because I had a SIM-locked iPhone. Then, I finally got the update to try an eSIM. But I realised not all eSIMs are created equal. Some are expensive. Others will simply frustrate you or require you to fund a dollar card before you can even pay.
After testing different options over time, one thing was clear: choosing the right eSIM provider makes a lot of difference.
So, if you’re looking for the best eSIM providers in Nigeria that work globally, here’s a detailed breakdown to help you choose wisely. But first, let me explain what an eSIM actually is.
What is an eSIM?
eSIM is short for Embedded SIM, and it is a digital SIM built directly into your phone or device. It allows you to connect to mobile networks without inserting a physical SIM card.
With an eSIM, you can:
- Activate instantly using a QR code
- Buy mobile data online
- Switch between networks without removing SIMs
- Use multiple plans on one device
For people who travel frequently, eSIMs remove the stress of buying local SIM cards or paying high roaming charges like me.
5 Best eSIM Providers in Nigeria in 2026
The best eSIM providers in Nigeria for people who travel frequently are:
- Nosh
- Saily
- Nomad
- Roamify
- GoMoWorld
1. Nosh
Nosh is popularly known as a gift card and crypto trading platform, but now, you can also buy eSIMs on the platform. I’ve tried it out, and it is the best and most convenient eSIM provider for Nigerians and Ghanaians, especially frequent travellers and digital nomads.
One of the things I love the most about Nosh’s eSIM service is how localized and flexible the experience is. You can purchase, activate, and manage your eSIM directly from your Nosh account. All without needing third-party apps or foreign cards.
Nosh offers:
- Local eSIMs for single countries, e.g., Nigeria, Ghana
- Regional eSIMs, e.g., Africa, Europe, Asia
- Global eSIMs covering up to 136 countries
Why Nosh works well:
- You can pay in your local currency, i.e., Naira or Cedis. This means there’s no need to look for a dollar card.
- You can purchase and activate eSIMs in-app easily.
- There’s clear pricing and plan details. This makes it easy to compare options.
If you want an eSIM that works excellently both locally and internationally, Nosh is a great option.
2. Saily
Saily is a popular international eSIM provider with solid global coverage, created by Nord VPN. It’s especially useful for travellers heading outside Africa and those who want flexible, short-term plans.
What to know about Saily:
- It covers many international destinations.
- It offers both regional and country-specific plans.
- The activation process is simple.
- Prices vary based on data size and duration.
However, you should note that payments are usually in foreign currency, which may require a dollar card.
3. Nomad
Nomad is widely used by digital nomads and business travellers. One major advantage of using this eSIM provider is its consistent connectivity across multiple countries, especially if you’re moving between regions.
Key features include:
- Regional and global plans
- Reliable network partners
- Easy QR-code activation
- Competitive pricing
Nomad works well, but, like many global providers, it typically processes payments in USD.
4. Roamify
Roamify focuses on affordability and simplicity. If you need data for a short trip and don’t want to overthink plan selection, Roamify does the job.
Why people choose Roamify:
- It’s got budget-friendly data plans
- Setting it up is fast.
- Good user interface and user experience.
Roamify offers network coverage in multiple regions and countries worldwide.
5. GoMoWorld
GoMoWorld offers eSIM services mainly for Europe and some select countries. It’s not the most global option, but performance is stable where it’s supported.
Aside from countries in Europe, you can use it in the United States, India, Nigeria, South Africa, Colombia, United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Turkey.
What to expect:
- Reliable connection in supported countries
- Simple and fast activation
- Clear pricing to compare plans.
Tips for Choosing an eSIM Provider as a Traveller
If you’re someone who travels from Nigeria or Ghana frequently, having an eSIM provider you can rely on will make your life easier. So, before buying any eSIM from a provider, consider the following:
1. Coverage
Before choosing an eSIM provider, check that they have wide coverage. Not all “global” plans cover every country. Always confirm that your usual destination countries are included.
2. Plan Type
If you travel both near and wide, you would want an eSIM provider that offers different types of plans.
- Local eSIM: Works in one country
- Regional eSIM: Can be used in multiple countries in one region, e.g., Europe.
- Global eSIM: Many countries worldwide
Choose based on how often and where you travel.
3. Data Validity
Whatever provider you choose should have plans with varying validity periods. Most eSIM plans last 7, 15, or 30 days. So when you want to choose one, match the plan duration to your travel schedule.
If you choose a plan that is valid for a shorter period than your stay, you would have to top up manually.
4. Internet Speed
You don’t want to be stuck with 3G internet speed wherever you are, but that is the case with some eSIM providers. For example, Nomad gives 3G connection in some regions.
So, check whether the plan you’re choosing supports 4G or 5G in your destination. This matters for navigation, calls, and work.
5. Payment Convenience
You should choose an eSIM provider like Nosh that allows you to pay in your local currency. As a Nigerian, being able to pay for global eSIMs in Naira without extra steps is a big relief.
This way, you don’t have to worry about currency conversions or having a dollar card.
Note: Before attempting to buy an eSIM plan at all, check that your device is eSIM compatible.
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIMs in Nigeria
1. How do I get an eSIM in Nigeria?
You can purchase an eSIM online from eSIM providers like Nosh and activate it instantly on your phone.
You can also choose to walk into a network provider’s office like MTN and request an eSIM.
2. Which eSIM is best in Nigeria?
The best eSIM depends on your needs, but Nosh is a top option for Nigerians due to local payment support, global coverage, and flexible plans. Buying and managing your eSIM plan on Nosh is easy and straightforward.
3. How much does an eSIM cost?
Prices vary based on the plan, data size, duration, and coverage.
For example, local plans are cheaper than regional or global plans. A plan with more data and a higher validity period will be more expensive than one with less data and a lower validity period.
4. How do I get an eSIM online?
Choose a provider, select a plan, complete payment, and follow the instructions to activate the eSIM on your device.
5. How do I top up my eSIM plan?
Most providers allow in-app top-ups. With Nosh, you can recharge within the app and pay directly from your wallet.
6. Can I convert my physical SIM to an eSIM?
Some mobile networks like MTN support SIM-to-eSIM conversion, depending on your device and carrier.
Conclusion
eSIMs have made staying connected easier, faster, and more flexible, especially for Nigerians who travel often or work remotely.
Now, you know what an eSIM is, the top eSIM providers in Nigeria and how to choose the best one for you.
If you want a solution that works locally and globally, is easy to manage, and lets you pay in your local currency, Nosh is the best eSIM provider for you.
If you’re ready to enjoy the convenience of an eSIM, explore Nosh eSIM plans and get connected in minutes.
