Following escalating insecurity, threats from terrorism, violent crime, and intercommunal clashes in some states in Nigeria, the United Kingdom has warned its citizens against travelling to multiple regions in the country.
The latest advisory issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), urged Britons to exercise extreme caution, review safety measures, and should have ready emergency plans.
The FCDO particularly advised against all travels to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara States which it highlighted as “high and increasing threat” from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWAP), especially near transport hubs, religious sites, and large gatherings.
Similarly, humanitarian workers and infrastructure in these areas were equally identified as potential targets.
The advisory further stated that travels to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba, and certain outskirts of Abuja was discouraged except for essential purposes.
It noted that violent crime, often involving firearms, had spread into central and affluent areas of Abuja, stressing that British officials were restricted to movement within the city’s metropolitan area.
The UK also warned of protests in Abuja that could turn violent and advised travellers to avoid demonstrations, follow local police instructions, and monitor local media.
In the South-South and South-East, travels to riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River were also flagged as a result of militant activity, high risk of armed robbery, and kidnapping.
The UK advisory specifically highlighted ongoing clashes between secessionist groups and security forces in the south-east, and warned that foreigners could be caught in crossfire.
For the South-West, including Lagos, the UK noted frequent incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, mugging and car-jacking.
The advisory further stated that while major terrorist attacks are rare, travellers were advised to remain vigilant especially at night, and should seek safety guidance from local authorities, hotels, or employers.
The FCDO stated that worsening conditions, especially in the North-east, could make evacuation difficult, and therefore called on British nationals in Nigeria to maintain constant vigilance and prioritize personal security.
