Orientation briefing in Nigeria

In ancient and pre-colonial times, the area of present-day Nigeria was occupied by a variety of ethnic groups with different languages and traditions. These included large Islamic kingdoms such as Borno, Kano, and the Sokoto Caliphate dominating the north, the Benin and Oyo Empires that controlled much of modern western Nigeria, and more decentralized political entities and city states in the south and southeast. In 1914, the British amalgamated their separately administered northern and southern territories into a Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria.

Nigeria achieved independence from Britain in 1960 and transitioned to a federal republic with three constituent states in 1963 under President Nnamdi AZIKIWE. This structure served to enflame regional and ethnic tension, contributing to a bloody coup led by predominately southeastern military officers in 1966 and a countercoup later that year masterminded by northern officers. In the aftermath of this tension, the governor of Nigeria’s Eastern Region, centered on the southeast, declared the region independent as the Republic of Biafra. The ensuring civil war (1967-1970), resulted in more than a million deaths, many from starvation. While the war forged a stronger Nigerian state and national identity, it contributed to long-lasting mistrust of the southeast’s predominantly Igbo population. Wartime military leader Yakubu GOWON ruled until a bloodless coup by frustrated junior officers in 1975. This generation of officers, including Olusegun OBASANJO, Ibrahim BABANGIDA, and Muhammadu BUHARI, who would all later serve as president, continue to exert significant influence in Nigeria to the present day.

Military rule predominated until the first durable transition to civilian government and adoption of a new constitution in 1999. The elections of 2007 marked the first civilian-to-civilian transfer of power in the country's history. National and state elections in 2011 and 2015 were generally regarded as credible. The 2015 election was also heralded for the fact that the then-umbrella opposition party, the All Progressives Congress, defeated the long-ruling (since 1999) People's Democratic Party and assumed the presidency, marking the first peaceful transfer of power from one party to another. Presidential and legislative elections in 2019 and 2023 were deemed broadly free and fair despite voting irregularities, intimidation, and violence. The government of Africa's most populous nation continues to face the daunting task of institutionalizing democracy and reforming a petroleum-based economy whose revenues have been squandered through decades of corruption and mismanagement. In addition, Nigeria faces increasing violence from Islamic terrorism, largely in the northeast, large scale criminal banditry, secessionist violence in the southeast, and competition over land and resources nationwide.

Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid from local authorities, local news outlets or your travel operator. Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds. If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.

Incidents of intercommunal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.

Widespread public demonstrations periodically take place across Nigeria including in major cities of Abuja and Lagos. Past protests have resulted in disruption, violence, and the security services have made use of tear gas, rubber bullets and live fire on occasion. Protests may occur with little notice. Exercise caution when travelling, limit travel after dark, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and monitor local media reporting, as well as UK Travel Advice.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

North East Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Yobe State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Bauchi State

North West Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Katsina State
• Zamfara State
• Sokoto State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Kaduna State
• Kano State
• Kebbi State
• Jigawa State

North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Niger State
• Kogi State
• Plateau State
• Taraba State
• Kwara State
• Benue State

South East and South South Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas (the river and swamp locations accessible by boat, but not by road) of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Abia State
• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers States
• Anambra State
• Imo State

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel. 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Nigeria

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Nigeria.

The primary terrorist threat in Nigeria comes from Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) and Boko Haram. These groups are mainly based in north-east Nigeria in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. Since 2021, there have also been attacks likely associated with terrorist groups in the following states: Borno, Gombe, Niger, Kaduna, Kogi, Bauchi, Ondo, Zamfara, Taraba, Jigawa, Sokoto, Edo and Kano states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur at any time, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• places of worship
• markets
• malls
• hotels
• bars and restaurants
• sports venues and screenings
• displacement camps
• train networks and stations
• government buildings
• educational institution
• international organisations
• large public gatherings
• military locations and venues within them

Take particular care during election periods, or periods of religious significance or other public holidays.

Terrorist groups have also constructed unauthorised vehicle checkpoints on major supply and commercial routes, such as the A3 Maiduguri-Damaturu Road.

A heavy security presence is often a sign of a particularly high risk. Avoid affected areas in the immediate aftermath of an attack. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent significant attacks include:

• in June 2023, ISWA carried out an IED attack in Nasarawa State
• in April 2023, ISWA claimed an IED attack on civilians in Jigawa State
• in February 2023, ISWA bombed a local government office in Kogi State
• in 2022, ISWA claimed responsibility for attacks on Nigerian security personnel in Ondo and Edo states
• in 2022, ISWA attacked the Kuje Prison in the Federal Capital Territory in which an unknown number of prisoners escaped
• in 2022, ISWA claimed responsibility for attacks on police in Niger State, within 30 kilometres of the Federal Capital Territory

Terrorist kidnap

Terrorist groups are highly likely to carry out kidnaps in Nigeria. Kidnappings are widespread and could occur anywhere. Foreign nationals and humanitarian workers have been kidnapped in the North, including in the states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Katsina, Kano and Kebbi. There may be an increased risk of terrorist kidnap, particularly to NGO workers, in Borno State.  

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

When arranging meetings, use a secure location. Avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours.

Political situation

Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid from local authorities, local news outlets or your travel operator. Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds. If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.

Incidents of intercommunal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.

Widespread public demonstrations periodically take place across Nigeria including in major cities of Abuja and Lagos. Past protests have resulted in disruption, violence, and the security services have made use of tear gas, rubber bullets and live fire on occasion. Protests may occur with little notice. Exercise caution when travelling, limit travel after dark, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and monitor local media reporting, as well as UK Travel Advice.

Curfews and communication blackouts

The authorities impose, amend and lift curfews and restrictions on the movement of vehicles at short notice throughout Nigeria.

If you fail to observe curfews and restrictions, you could be at significant risk of arrest and detention. Check with the local authorities or someone with local knowledge for up-to-date information.

Network operators in Nigeria have in the past been ordered to suspend mobile networks and wi-fi with very little notice.

Crime

Street and vehicle crime

Throughout Nigeria there are high levels of violent street crime including muggings and armed robbery.

There are frequent reports of carjackings, some involving armed gunmen, on Nigeria’s urban roads with rural road networks especially dangerous.

Criminals have targeted visiting British nationals due to perceived wealth. Follow guidance offered by hosts or employers and limit road travel at night as far as possible. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and never wear valuable watches, jewellery or items of sentimental value. If you suspect danger, move to a safer area.

If you’re caught up in an armed robbery, immediately comply with the attackers’ demands.

Withdrawing and exchanging money

Areas around banks and ATMs have seen a spike in criminal activity, so take extra precautions when withdrawing cash, especially at night.

Credit card fraud is common, so keep your card within sight when paying bills.

Financial scams

British nationals are increasingly targeted by scammers operating in West Africa. Scams come in many forms including romance and friendship, business ventures and work or employment opportunities. Scams can put victims at great financial risk. Be cautious about requests for funds, job offers, business ventures and face-to-face meetings with anyone you have been in contact with online. Get more information on scams from Action Fraud, including ‘419’ emails and letters.

If you’re emailed about a money transfer to Nigeria for someone you know, contact the person supposedly receiving the money. If a caller claims to be in distress, ask if they have reported the incident to the Consular Section in the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos or British High Commission in Abuja.

If you receive a suspicious email that claims to be from any British High Commission office in Nigeria, contact the Consular Section of the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos.

Surrogacy and fertility treatment

If you’re considering fertility treatment or surrogacy options in Nigeria, exercise caution. There have been reports of staged fake births, commonly referred to as ‘miracle babies’, where visitors are falsely led to believe that a birth has taken place.

Regulation of fertility treatment and surrogacy services in Nigeria is weak, and legal protections for intended parents and surrogates may be limited. There have also been reports of legal disputes involving international surrogacy arrangements in both Nigerian and English courts.

If you plan to bring a child born through fertility treatment or surrogacy in Nigeria to the UK, make sure you understand the relevant UK immigration and health requirements. See Guidance on surrogacy overseas.

Overseas Adoption

The UK has restricted overseas adoption of children from Nigeria. If you bring a child who is not biologically related to you into the UK without following the legal procedures, you could face prosecution and the child may not be eligible for British citizenship.

Kidnapping for ransom

Kidnapping is widespread across Nigeria and criminal kidnaps can occur anywhere. The issue is particularly severe in the northwest (including Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Borno, Sokoto) but is also high in many central and southern states (including Niger, Kogi, Kwara, and the Abuja Federal Capital Territory).

Criminal groups may kidnap victims by stopping cars on major highways, including the:

• Abuja-Kaduna highway
• Enugu-Awka-Onitsha expressway in Anambra

There is also a high threat of kidnapping and other armed attacks at oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta region including to facilities at sea.

Possible targets for kidnap include British nationals of Nigerian origin visiting friends and relatives, and British nationals working for international corporations. They will have connections in the country with ready access to funds. There is a possibility that criminal groups could sell people they kidnap as hostages to terrorist organisations (see ‘Terrorist kidnap’ section above).

When arranging meetings, use a secure location. Avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours.

Methanol poisoning

There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Nigeria.

Where incidents have been reported, Nigerian authorities have sought to shut down production centres, particularly for unlicensed traditional gin. Avoid drinking unlicensed products.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Laws and cultural differences

Using a mobile

Your SIM must be linked to a Nigerian Identification Number. Get guidance from your network operator.

Ramadan

Nigeria has the largest Muslim population in sub-Saharan Africa. You should behave and dress modestly, particularly in the north and when visiting religious sites.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year. During this time, in any predominantly Muslim area you should not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public areas (including in cars and taxis) during the daytime
• sit down to eat in hotels and restaurants without checking if there is a separate or screened area for food and drink
• ignore dress codes – it is more important to wear respectful clothing during Ramadan
• play loud music, swear, shout, sing or dance

Be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly at dusk when people are getting back home to eat.

Illegal drugs

Possession or use of illegal drugs, including cannabis, carries severe penalties in Nigeria. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting.

Nigeria has excellent  technology and security for detecting illegal items at the border. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Using cameras in secure areas

Photography of government, military buildings and airports may lead to arrest.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Nigeria with penalties of up to 14 years in prison. Some northern states observe Sharia Law which can prescribe the death penalty for same-sex sexual activity.  

The ‘Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act’ provides for lengthy prison sentences for anyone involved in same-sex marriages, including those who help arrange, carry out or even attend events perceived to be same-sex weddings. The Act also criminalises anyone who helps register, organise or participate in gay groups, organisations, or those who publicly promote same-sex relationships. 

Same-sex relationships are generally viewed as socially unacceptable in Nigerian society. There is an increased risk of violence, attacks and threats, such as blackmail and intimidation against anyone being thought to be part of the LGBT+ community or supporting their rights.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

The Nigerian Government has issued a warning about travelling at night in North Central Nigeria in response to security concerns.

If you are planning to drive in Nigeria, see information on driving abroad. Road travel across Nigeria can be dangerous. Driving standards are low, road conditions often poor and vehicle road-worthiness a serious safety issue. There are a high number of fatalities on Nigeria’s road. Traffic in some areas, including Lagos, can be slow moving and you may need to allow extra time for journeys. Take a mobile and a supply of bottled water with you when travelling by car.

You can drive in Nigeria with a UK driving licence for up to 3 months. If necessary renew or update it. The minimum legal age for driving is 18.

If you’re staying longer, you will need a 1968 international driving permit (IDP). For stays of more than a year, you will have to get a Nigerian driver’s licence.

Limit travel after dark outside city centres as far as possible. Avoid quiet and poorly lit roads. Be alert when in traffic jams or at traffic lights. Keep car windows up and doors locked, and make sure valuables are out of sight. If you feel your vehicle is being followed, drive to the nearest place of safety (such as a police station).

Take care when driving outside cities and consider travelling in convoy.

Dangers at road checkpoints

There are authorised and unauthorised vehicle checkpoints throughout Nigeria. Some are for security checks, others to extort small payments of money. Slow down at any type of checkpoint and stay calm. 

There has been an increasing trend of illegal vehicle checkpoints on major supply and commercial routes in northern Nigeria. This includes attacks on major roads into Maiduguri in Borno State, including the A3 Maiduguri-Damaturu road. These attacks have targeted civilians, security forces and aid workers.

Nigeria land borders

Additional checks are in place at the Nigeria-Benin, Nigeria-Niger and Nigeria-Cameroon land borders. If you’re planning to make a land crossing from Nigeria, check with the local authorities for the latest information before travelling.

Taxis and buses

There is a particularly high level of crime and little regulatory oversight on public transport, including taxis, in Nigeria. Taxis and long-distance buses are often poorly maintained, uninsured and driven by unqualified drivers. Most major hotels offer cars for hire with drivers, so use these where possible. Taxis, including online taxi app services, can pose a kidnap risk to passengers.

If you are expecting a greeter or driver to collect you at any of Nigeria’s international airports, make sure they properly identify themselves before you set off. Criminals posing as greeters are a problem.

Sea travel

There have been armed robberies and incidents of piracy in Nigerian waters, the wider Gulf of Guinea, and on the rivers and harbours in the Niger Delta area. Mariners should get professional security advice and take appropriate precautions.

Swimming risks

Swimming off the coast of Nigeria is sometimes dangerous due to rip tides and undertows, with drownings occurring each year. Get local advice before swimming.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

This section has safety advice for regions of Nigeria. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice. 

Insecurity is increasing across Nigeria. Kidnapping, violent crime, and intercommunal violence occur throughout all regions of Nigeria. You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

North East Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Yobe State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Bauchi state

There is a high and increasing threat from Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa, particularly around transport hubs, religious areas and large gatherings. Humanitarian personnel, vehicles, supplies and infrastructure can be targeted by terrorists and criminals.

There is a high threat of kidnap and violent attacks. Intercommunal tensions can lead to outbreaks of violence. During the dry season when roads are more easily accessible this risk is heightened. 

Regular military operations are ongoing in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. There is a risk of retaliatory attacks.

If you’re in the north-east against FCDO advice, keep in touch with the authorities and the wider community on the security situation. Make sure your safety procedures and contingency plans are up to date. If you are working, make sure you have confidence in your employer’s ability to extract you in the event of any emergency.

If in Maiduguri, be aware that if security were to deteriorate any further, it could be extremely difficult for you to leave the city. Be mindful of the risks of travelling by road in this area and take precautions.

North West Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Katsina State
• Zamfara State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Kaduna State
• Kano State
• Kebbi State
• Jigawa State
• Sokoto State

Banditry and violent attacks are frequent and there is a high threat of kidnap. Incidents of intercommunal violence occur and trains are vulnerable to attack. If you’re travelling in the north-west against FCDO advice, be extremely cautious and monitor local media.

North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Niger State
• Kogi State
• Plateau State
• Taraba State
• Kwara State
• Benue State

This advice is due to criminal and militant activity and incidents of intercommunal violence.

The outer suburbs of Abuja, within the Federal Capital Territory are prone to varying levels of violence, and the safety of daily activity is unpredictable. Violent crime, often involving firearms, has increased and spread from the outer suburbs to more central, wealthier areas of the city.

See Terrorism

Be cautious when travelling in the Federal Capital Territory. Take advice from trusted contacts and be prepared to cancel or limit your plans. British Government staff in Nigeria have been advised to restrict travel to an area broadly within the Abuja metropolitan area.

There are protests in Abuja from time to time, which can turn violent. Monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and follow instructions from local police and security forces.

There has been an increase in intercommunal violence in Benue State, with a number of deaths reported. There may be increased security presence in parts of the state.

There has also been an increase in violence in Kwara State, with a number of deaths reported. There may be an increased security presence in parts of the state.

South East and South South Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas (the river and swamp locations accessible by boat, but not by road) of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Abia State
• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers states
• Anambra State
• Imo State

Militant groups are active across the Niger Delta region and have carried out a number of attacks on oil and gas infrastructure. There’s a high risk of armed robbery, criminality and kidnap in the Niger Delta region.

There have been attacks and targeted killings. Some attacks have been on isolated roads and in remote locations, but they could occur in metropolitan areas. There is also a heightened risk of indiscriminate attacks on police and security infrastructure, which may affect bystanders. A number of states have imposed curfews. Be cautious about travelling in remote areas at night and follow local news and information outlets.

Secessionist groups are active in the south-east and attacks and violent clashes often occur with the military and other security forces. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Some previous protests have turned violent. In Imo State there is an emerging trend of successionist groups using improvised explosive devices though the overall number of incidents remains relatively low. Anyone travelling to the region should exercise increased caution and continue to follow FCDO travel advice. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.

South West Nigeria including Lagos

Violent crimes such as mugging, kidnapping, car-jacking and armed robbery are common, particularly in the larger cities. Intercommunal violence is common and can flare up suddenly. Large-scale terrorist attacks are rare, but Islamic State West Africa claimed 2 attacks in 2022. While these attacks have not targeted foreign nationals, try to avoid being caught up in such incidents.

Be cautious when travelling in Lagos, particularly on the mainland, which attracts high levels of crime and where security levels can be unpredictable. Street crime is a significant risk across Lagos, particularly in crowded areas. Take sensible measures to guard your possessions and reduce your personal risk. Be cautious when moving around Lagos at night, risks can be particularly high when moving around the city by foot.

Be alert and take any security advice given by your hotel, employer or your hosts.

Emergency medical number

Call 112 to report an emergency.

There is no national ambulance service and hospital-owned services are extremely limited. You may need to get local advice or arrange local transport.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Nigeria
• see where to get vaccines and whether you must pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Nigeria including:

• yellow fever
• schistosomiasis
• Zika virus
• malaria and dengue

Ebola

On 20 October 2026, the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed its first imported case of Ebola in the Federal Capital Territory and are implementing public health measures in response, including contact tracing. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor updates from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.  

Before you travel to Nigeria, read general information on Ebola and similar diseases.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
• You have filled in the online Nigeria Health Declaration Form

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Medication

Pharmacies are widely available in Nigeria. They will accept prescriptions from the UK.

Most medicines that require a prescription from a doctor in the UK will require one in Nigeria. If you need a new prescription, a doctor in Nigeria can issue one for a fee. Take your existing packaging to show them exactly what you need.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Nigeria

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Nigeria. 

Medical standards differ from the UK and you will have to pay for any medical treatment at public hospitals. Private hospitals are more expensive. Local hospitals may be crowded and there can be shortages in medical supplies and equipment. If you need medical help in Nigeria, contact your medical insurance provider for advice on suitable healthcare facilities.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.