Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has recently revised its travel advice concerning Nigeria, urging British citizens to steer clear of certain regions due to a surge in violence, terrorism, kidnappings, and criminal activities.
Under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration, the updated guidance imposes stricter travel limitations particularly in the North-East, while emphasizing caution in various northern and central states, the riverine zones of the South-South, and specific urban districts including the outskirts of Abuja.
Overview of the Updated Travel Warning
The FCDO’s latest advisory highlights a worsening security landscape throughout Nigeria, with incidents of kidnapping, violent offenses, and communal conflicts reported nationwide. British nationals are strongly advised to heighten their personal security measures, remain vigilant, and maintain current emergency plans.
Regions Where Travel Is Strongly Discouraged
- Borno
- Yobe
- Adamawa
- Gombe
- Katsina
- Zamfara
The UK government identifies a “significant and escalating threat” from extremist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), especially near transportation centers, places of worship, and large public events. Humanitarian workers and related infrastructure are also at risk of attack.
Areas Where Only Essential Travel Is Recommended
- Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba
- Outskirts of Abuja within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
The advisory notes an increase in violent crimes involving firearms extending from Abuja’s peripheral neighborhoods into its affluent central districts. UK diplomatic personnel have been instructed to limit their movements predominantly to the city center.
Security Challenges Across Nigerian Regions
North-East: Active Military Engagements and Security Concerns
The North-East states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe are currently experiencing ongoing military operations targeting insurgent groups. The FCDO warns of possible retaliatory violence, advising residents and visitors in Maiduguri to prepare for potential difficulties when attempting to leave the area due to deteriorating security conditions.
South-East and South-South: Militancy and Separatist Tensions
Travel to the riverine territories of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River is strongly discouraged. These areas face threats from militant factions, frequent attacks on oil and gas facilities, and elevated risks of armed robbery and kidnappings. Additionally, the South-East experiences sporadic unrest linked to secessionist movements, which occasionally result in clashes with security forces. While foreign nationals are rarely direct targets, they may inadvertently become victims amid such conflicts.
South-West, Including Lagos: Urban Crime and Security Alerts
In the South-West, particularly in major urban centers like Lagos, incidents of mugging, kidnapping, carjacking, and armed robbery are prevalent. Although large-scale terrorist attacks remain uncommon, the FCDO references ISWAP-claimed incidents in 2022 and advises travelers to exercise increased caution, especially during nighttime and in less secure neighborhoods on the Lagos mainland.
Public Safety: Demonstrations and Crowd Events
Protests in Abuja and other cities can escalate rapidly and unpredictably. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets, avoid participating in or approaching demonstrations, and comply promptly with law enforcement directives to ensure personal safety.
Additional Safety Recommendations for Travelers
Given the complex security environment, it is advisable for travelers to register with the UK’s travel program, maintain regular contact with their embassy, and consider employing local security advice. Utilizing secure transportation options and avoiding travel after dark can further reduce risks.
According to recent data from the Nigerian Security Tracker, violent incidents have increased by over 20% in the past year, underscoring the importance of adhering to official travel advisories and exercising heightened vigilance.
