FCO Travel Advice for - Nigeria

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Yobe State
• Bauchi State
• Riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States
• Warri city
• Kano city
• Okene City
  
  

The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:

• Kano State
• Kaduna State
• Jigwa State
• Katsina State
• Jos city
• Riyom and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas in Plateau State
• Gombe State
• Okene region of Kogi State
• Mubi Town in Adamawa State and the area north of Mubi Town that borders Borno State
• Non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States
• Abia State
• Kaduna City
• Zaria City
  
  
• An expatriate was kidnapped on Victoria Island on Saturday, March 23 at approximately 11:00 PM.
  
  A British construction worker, held hostage in Nigeria, is believed to have been killed, together with six other foreign nationals. Ansaru claimed responsibility for the abduction of all 7 in Bauchi state on 16 February 2013.
  
  
• There is a high threat from terrorism in Nigeria. There is a threat of retaliatory attacks following the French intervention in Mali. See Terrorism
  
  
• A bomb attack at a bus station in Kano on 18 March resulted in multiple casualties.
  
  
• There is a high threat of kidnap throughout Nigeria. Recent terrorist kidnaps have occurred mostly in northern Nigeria, but could occur anywhere in Nigeria. See Kidnaps
  
  
• Demonstrations and civil unrest can occur at short notice. Follow news reports and be alert to developments. If you become aware of any nearby protests you should leave the area immediately. A number of curfews are in force. See Local travel and Political situation
  
  
• Before considering any travel, take professional security advice. Be vigilant at all times, keep others informed of your travel plans and vary your routines. You should follow your employer’s security advice, make sure your accommodation is secure and review your security measures regularly.
  
  
• Violent crime is common in the south of the country, including Lagos. See Crime.
  
  
• Flash flooding can occur during the wet season (June to October). There is a greater risk from water-borne diseases during the rainy season. See Health
  
  

• Around 117,000 British nationals visit Nigeria each year. 50 British nationals needed consular assistance in Nigeria in the period 1 April 2011 - 31 March 2012. See Consular assistance statistics.
  
  

• Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.