The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a new advisory warning against travel to several Nigerian states due to escalating insecurity, violent crime, terrorism, and kidnappings.
In its latest travel guidance published on GOV.UK and reviewed on Sunday, the FCDO noted: “Insecurity is increasing across Nigeria. Kidnapping, violent crime, and intercommunal violence occur throughout all regions of Nigeria.” British nationals are urged to exercise extreme caution, review safety procedures, and ensure contingency plans are in place.
The advisory specifically advises against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara states due to the “high and increasing threat from Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa, particularly around transport hubs, religious sites, and large gatherings.” The FCDO highlighted that “humanitarian personnel, vehicles, supplies, and infrastructure can be targeted by terrorists and criminals.”
Additionally, the UK government recommends only essential travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, and Taraba states, as well as the outer suburbs of Abuja. Violent crime involving firearms has reportedly increased in these areas, spreading from suburban to central, wealthier districts.
The advisory also warns of potential unrest in Abuja, stating, “Protests occur from time to time, which can turn violent. Monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and follow instructions from local authorities.”
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The North-East remains particularly volatile, with ongoing military operations in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states, raising the risk of retaliatory attacks. Residents of Maiduguri were cautioned that further deterioration in security could make it extremely difficult to leave the city.
In the South-East and South-South, the FCDO advises against all travel to riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states, citing attacks by militant groups on oil and gas infrastructure, as well as a high risk of armed robbery, criminality, and kidnapping. The advisory also highlights ongoing clashes between separatist groups in the South-East and security forces, warning that travellers could inadvertently be caught in attacks.
The South-West, including Lagos, faces frequent violent crimes such as mugging, kidnapping, car-jacking, and armed robbery, particularly in larger cities. While large-scale terrorist attacks are rare, the Islamic State West Africa claimed two attacks in 2022, though foreign nationals were not targeted. Travellers are advised to exercise caution, especially on the Lagos mainland, and avoid unnecessary travel at night.
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The FCDO urged those in high-risk areas to remain alert, follow advice from local authorities, employers, or hosts, and ensure safety plans are current.
Nigeria has long faced complex security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, separatist movements, and communal violence. The Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East has displaced millions, while splinter groups such as Islamic State West Africa Province continue to target civilians, security forces, and aid workers.
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In the North-West and parts of North-Central Nigeria, bandit groups increasingly conduct mass abductions, extortion, and cattle rustling. Meanwhile, separatist tensions in the South-East have led to frequent clashes with security forces and targeted killings. Though calmer than in the past, the Niger Delta and South-South remain prone to criminality and militancy linked to oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
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