Travel Advisory
Please check your government's official travel advisory before departure. Situations can change rapidly.
Safety Level
Official risk level and travel advisories
Nigeria, West Africa's most populous country, rewards prepared travellers but requires care. Lagos and Abuja host routine tourism and business; some regions warrant extra caution.
- Overall risk
- Varies widely by region; urban centres see petty and opportunistic crime
- Main concern
- Theft, scams and regional security differences
- Emergency number
- 112 (unified); police 199
- Lagos and Abuja are visited routinely for tourism and business with sensible precautions. Security varies by region, so check the latest official government travel advice and arrange trusted airport transfers on arrival.
Danger Zones & Areas to Avoid
Regions with poor security or restricted access
Security differs sharply by region. The north-east, parts of the north-west and the Niger Delta carry higher risk; always check current government advisories before travelling there.
- Higher-risk regions
- North-east, parts of the north-west and the Niger Delta
- Lagos & Abuja
- Routine visits with normal urban precautions
- Before travel
- Consult the latest official advisories for your destination
- Risk levels are region-specific rather than nationwide. Most tourism and business in Lagos and Abuja proceeds with sensible care, while some areas call for extra caution. Review current government guidance and follow local advice.
Natural Disaster Risks
Earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and other hazards
Nigeria has a tropical climate. Expect a southern rainy season (April-October) with flooding risk, and the dry, dusty Harmattan (December-February).
- Rainy season
- Roughly April-October in the south; flooding possible
- Harmattan
- Dry, dusty winds December-February can reduce visibility
- Seismic risk
- Low
- Seasonal rains can cause flooding and disrupt roads, especially in low-lying and urban areas. During the Harmattan, dust may affect air quality and flights; those with respiratory conditions should take care.
Health & Disease Risks
Endemic diseases and hygiene concerns
A yellow fever certificate is required for entry. Malaria is present nationwide, and tap water is not reliably safe to drink.
- Yellow fever
- Vaccination certificate required on arrival
- Malaria
- Present nationwide; use prophylaxis and repellent
- Tap water
- Drink bottled or treated water
- Seek travel-health advice well before departure about vaccinations (including yellow fever) and malaria prevention. Private clinics in major cities offer good care; arrange comprehensive medical insurance and carry any personal medication with a prescription.
Crime & Scam Trends
Common crimes and scams targeting tourists
Petty theft, pickpocketing and street robbery occur in cities. Financial scams, including the well-known "419" advance-fee fraud, are common; treat unsolicited offers with caution.
- Main risks
- Pickpocketing, bag snatching and opportunistic robbery
- Scams
- "419" advance-fee and online/romance fraud
- Advice
- Keep valuables out of sight; verify any offer independently
- Stay alert in crowds and traffic, avoid displaying cash or valuables, and use trusted transport arranged in advance. Never send money or personal details in response to unsolicited business, prize or investment offers.
Political Situation & Protests
Political instability and potential demonstrations
Nigeria is a federal presidential republic. Rallies and demonstrations occur, especially around elections, and can turn disruptive; avoid large gatherings.
- Government
- Federal presidential republic
- Demonstrations
- Possible, particularly around election periods
- Political gatherings and protests can occasionally lead to disruption or road closures. Avoid demonstrations and large crowds, monitor local news, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Local Laws & Prohibitions
Important local laws and penalties for travelers
Nigeria is religiously and culturally diverse. Northern states are predominantly Muslim and some apply Sharia law; dress modestly and respect local customs. Penalties for drug offences are severe.
- Sharia states
- Some northern states apply Sharia law alongside federal law
- Dress
- Conservative dress advised, especially in the north
- Drugs
- Severe penalties, including long prison terms
- Respect local religious and cultural norms; ask before photographing people, government or military sites. Same-sex relationships are criminalised. Carry ID, and note that in some northern states Sharia-based rules on alcohol and dress may apply.
Emergency Contacts
Police, ambulance, and fire department numbers
The national emergency number is 112. The police can also be reached on 199. English is the official language, easing communication.
- All emergencies
- 112
- Police
- 199
- Language
- English is the official language
- Response times and service availability can vary by location. Keep your accommodation and embassy contacts to hand, and note the address of the nearest reputable hospital or clinic on arrival.
Embassy & Consulate Info
Location and contact details of your embassy
No embassy or consulate information is available for your selected nationality in this country.
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage and tips for choosing a policy
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, with cover for medical treatment and emergency repatriation.
- Essential
- Medical treatment and emergency evacuation cover
- Check
- Repatriation, and any advisory-related exclusions
- Documents
- Carry policy details and a 24-hour assistance number
- Private care is available in major cities but can be costly, so ensure your policy covers medical treatment and emergency repatriation. Confirm that any regional travel advisories do not void your cover, and keep your insurer's emergency contact accessible.