23 March 2021
There's a ban on overseas travel from Australia. You can’t leave Australia unless you have an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs, or are travelling to a destination that is exempt from the ban.
Our global travel advice remains at 'Do not travel' due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel. Some destinations were already set at Do Not Travel prior to COVID-19 due to the extreme risk to your safety.
If you’re overseas and wish to return to Australia, be prepared for delays and read our advice on trying to get home.
When you arrive in Australia you must quarantine for 14 days at designated facilities in your port of arrival, unless you have an exemption or are travelling on a quarantine-free flight from a green zone destination. At this time, vaccination against COVID-19 does not change this quarantine requirement. You may be required to pay for the costs of your quarantine. View State and Territory Government COVID-19 information for information about quarantine and domestic borders.
If you're staying overseas, make plans to stay for an extended period. Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe.
Our network of embassies and consular posts around the world will provide you with up-to-date local advice and support throughout this difficult period. Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures.
For the latest information, read and subscribe to our news and travel advice. Also see our COVID-19 information pages.
Call 119 or 112.
Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest hospital.
Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest police station.
Do not travel to Nigeria overall.
Do not travel overseas due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Do not travel to Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kano, Kaduna, and Yobe states
Do not travel to Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kano, Kaduna and Yobe states due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, the threat of kidnapping and the volatile security situation.
Do not travel to coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta and Rivers states
Do not travel to coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta and Rivers states due to the very high risk of kidnapping, robbery and armed attacks.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Travellers to Nigeria are at risk of:
Exercise extreme caution. The security situation could change suddenly. You could get caught up in violence directed at others. If you travel to high-risk areas despite our advice, we may not be able to provide consular services. Seek professional security advice and arrange personal security measures.
Violent crime occurs commonly in Nigeria, including in parts of Lagos and Abuja. Politically-motivated violence, including terrorist bombings and armed attacks on both security forces and innocent bystanders, commonly occur in Nigeria’s north east, particularly in Borno State, but also elsewhere.
Police maintain patrols and checkpoints in many locations in Nigeria, including in Abuja and at city entry points, and may ask for identification. Be alert when you approach police checkpoints. Take care when driving, especially at night. Incidents of criminals posing as police or security at checkpoints have been reported in the past. See Travel.
In Nigeria, terrorist attacks:
Australian officials take extra security measures when they travel outside Abuja and Lagos.
Attacks can be large, simultaneous, and might include:
Secondary attacks sometimes target first responders.
Boko Haram (and the associated Islamic State West Africa Province) is active in north-eastern Nigeria, especially Borno State. Boko Haram also operates in adjacent north eastern states including Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe and Yobe, and, in the past, has launched attacks further afield such as in Abuja. No location in Nigeria should be viewed as being outside the scope for potential Boko Haram activity. Around 10,000 people are estimated to have been killed by Boko Haram over more than 10 years of conflict.
Bandit groups are also increasingly active in Nigeria’s north west, launching attacks on motorists and local communities involving gunfire.
To protect yourself from terrorism:
If you're in a 'Do not travel' area, leave if it's safe to do so.
If there's an attack, leave the area immediately. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
More information:
The threat of kidnapping is high in all parts of Nigeria.
Boko Haram and associated groups such as the Islamic State West Africa Province has frequently engaged in kidnapping in the north east of the country for terrorist purposes.
There is an increasing risk of kidnapping in Nigeria’s north west by ‘bandit’ groups, and an ongoing risk of kidnapping in the southern delta/riverine regions of Nigeria.
Maritime piracy and seaborne kidnapping in the Gulf of Guinea region is a significant risk.
However, no area of Nigeria, including large urban locations such as Lagos or Abuja, is completely free from the risk of kidnapping.
Boko Haram is active in north-eastern Nigeria and we advise do not travel to north-eastern states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe and Yobe.
We also advise do not travel to the states of Kano and Kaduna and the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta and Rivers.
Kidnappers usually target locals, but foreigners have been taken, including Australians in the past. Aid workers may be targets. Kidnapping in Nigeria can motivated for both financial or terrorist reasons.
If you travel to a high-risk area despite our advice, we may not be able to provide consular services. Seek professional security advice and arrange personal security measures.
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
More information:
Foreigners generally aren't the target of political violence. However, you could get caught up in violence directed at others. Public demonstrations and protest activity have sometimes been subject to forceful suppression by government security forces, including live firing. Government authorities may also react by imposing local curfews suddenly.
Protests have the potential to occur spontaneously and in several locations at once. Protests in October 2020 over police conduct resulted in subsequent violence, looting and deaths in Lagos and other regions of Nigeria. Follow the advice of local authorities for information on their locations, and monitor local media. The situation can change rapidly.
Long-standing tribal, religious, political and community arguments can lead to violence and unrest. Recent civil unrest has also included conflict between cattle herders and villagers in many rural locations of Nigeria, including the risk of violence to bystanders.
To protect yourself if you encounter a protest or local tension:
Under all circumstances, exercise caution and avoid locations where protests or street gatherings may be occurring.
More information:
Nigeria's crime rate is high. Crime increases at night, particularly in major cities and on highways. The following forms of crime are common:
If you're a victim of violent crime, especially rape, get immediate medical attention. Nigeria has a higher rate of HIV/AIDS infections than Australia.
To protect yourself from petty crime:
Commercial and internet fraud often originates in Nigeria.
Online scammers defraud victims. Victims who have travelled to the originating country have put their lives in danger.
Criminals often seek details of 'safe' bank accounts overseas, such as yours. They claim they will transfer large sums of money into the account. Victims believe they will get a donation or a percentage of the amount involved.
Be aware of other scams where criminals:
To protect yourself against a scam, be wary of:
Be careful about giving out personal information or disposing of personal documents while in Nigeria.
Scammers can access your personal data when you use open networks. Be careful when and where you use internet banking and other sites that transmit or store your data or passwords.
If you're travelling to Nigeria, your family and friends may receive bogus phone calls and emails from Nigeria. Scammers may claim that you're in legal, financial or medical trouble and that you need money.
Some scams ask you to transfer money through the Australian High Commission in Abuja. Some scammers pretend to work there.
Check with the Australian High Commission in Abuja if you're asked to send money or details to them (see 'Local contacts').
Do not travel to Nigeria to try to get your money back or seek revenge. You could be in danger.
Bogus dating schemes
Criminals in West Africa operate fake online friendship, dating and marriage schemes.
Scammers use these schemes to defraud and threaten the lives of Australians. They do this by targeting Australians and other foreigners on internet dating sites or chat rooms. They may pose as a prospective friend or spouse.
Once a friendship develops, the scammer asks for money to allow them to travel to Australia. In some cases, the scammer ends the relationship once the money has been sent. There's little chance of getting the money back.
In other cases, foreigners are lured to Africa to meet their prospective friend or marriage partner. Once in Africa, they may become the victim of kidnapping, assault, robbery or extortion.
The rainy season is from May to October. Flooding can close roads.
The dry season is from November to April. Temperatures may be higher than 40°C for multiple days, especially in the north.
Strong ocean currents occur along the coast. Conditions can change quickly. Several people drown each year.
Nigeria experiences the Harmattan from December to March. This seasonal wind blows sand and dust in the air. Dust storms are common and flights can change due to bad visibility.
If a natural disaster or severe weather happens, follow the advice of local authorities.
More information:
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. A ban on overseas travel from Australia remains in place. You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Nigeria. Take enough legal medication for your trip. Do not assume the same medication will be available in Nigeria if your supply runs out.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
More information:
COVID-19 remains a risk in Nigeria.
For information on Nigeria's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control website or call their toll-free number +234 (0) 800 970 0010. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
HIV/AIDS is common in Nigeria.
Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.
Yellow fever is common in Nigeria. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination, which is also a requirement for entry. Get vaccinated before you leave.
Other common insect-borne diseases include:
To protect yourself from disease:
Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.
More information:
Lassa fever occurs in several states in Nigeria. Monitor local media and the World Health Organization for updates.
Lassa fever is spread through contact with rodents or body fluids of infected people. To protect yourself:
Monkeypox is transmitted to humans from animals, usually monkeys, rodents, and squirrels.
In areas where monkeypox occurs, avoid:
Common waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include:
Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.
To protect yourself from illness:
Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
Facilities outside Nigeria's major cities are basic.
You may need to pay cash up-front before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.
If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need evacuation to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Penalties for drug offences are severe. They may include long jail terms and large fines.
More information:
The death penalty can apply for serious crimes like murder and armed robbery.
Sharia law operates in 12 northern states:
Sharia law is increasingly enforced in these areas.
Same-sex sexual activity between adults can carry severe penalties in these states under Sharia law. Stealing and adultery may also lead to harsh punishment under Sharia Law.
Same-sex relationships are illegal in all parts of Nigeria. They are also regarded as socially unacceptable by many in Nigeria.
It's illegal to:
More information:
It's illegal to photograph or film around:
Restricted areas may not be well defined or signposted.
It's also illegal to:
See further information on items subject to import and export restrictions for travellers from Nigeria’s Customs service, including under ‘passenger concessions’.
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
If you're an Australian-Nigerian dual national and aged between 18 and 30, you may need to join the National Youth Service Corps program.
Nigerian authorities may insist dual nationals enter and exit on a Nigerian passport.
Contact an embassy or consulate of Nigeria for advice before you travel.
More information:
Nigeria is ethnically and religiously diverse. Avoid behaving or dressing in ways that might offend local expectations or religious sensitivities, especially outside of urban areas.
The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Nigeria. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day (see 'Sharia Law'). If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.
Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
More information:
Nigeria currently bans entry to non-Nigerian passport holders who have travelled to Brazil, India or Turkey in the preceding 14 days.
Expect enhanced screening measures at airports:
On 10 May, the Nigerian Government announced the re-introduction of a range of Covid-19 related restrictions, including closing event locations, bars and nightclubs, with restaurants to provide eat-in service at 50 per cent capacity only. Further detail is available from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
There's a nationwide curfew in Nigeria from midnight (12am) to 4am. Restrictions may vary between States. It is also mandatory to wear a face mask in public spaces. Mask wearing is rigorously enforced in many public offices; banks; supermarkets; and other locations.
We recommend you ensure you have arrangements in place for an extended stay, and stay in contact with family and friends so they know you're safe and well.
You will need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Nigeria. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.
Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.
More information:
Australian expats in Nigeria must register with Nigerian immigration authorities.
More information:
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
The local currency is the Nigeria Naira (NGN).
You must declare amounts of currencies, negotiable instruments, or precious stones/metals in excess of US$10,000 or its equivalent brought into or out of Nigeria.
Facilities for changing traveller's cheques and Australian dollars are very limited.
US dollars are easily exchangeable in Nigeria, and usually accepted at:
ATMs are widely available in major cities. However, it’s hard to use non-Nigerian debit and credit cards outside of major hotels. Many transactions need to be conducted using cash.
Fraud is a risk when using debit and credit cards
Some of Nigeria's land borders are now open for personal travel, but you should check if the specific border you propose to travel through is open at the time of travel. You should avoid travelling over land borders to Nigeria.
International Driving Permits aren't recognised in Nigeria.
You must have a local driver's licence.
Driving in Nigeria is dangerous due to:
Be alert to security threats, particularly in traffic jams and at traffic lights.
Domestic road transport between urban centres is discouraged due to the high incidence of attacks on motorists by criminal gangs, bandits and terrorists. If undertaken, engage professional security support and planning.
Armed robbery happens on highways. Criminals stop travellers with nails and branches on the road, fake breakdowns and injured people.
Expect delays when you travel. This can include:
These will often happen in major cities and after dark.
If you can't produce your identity documents, car registration or ownership papers, police may fine you or ask for a bribe.
If you're in a traffic accident, nearby crowds may gather quickly. They may also overreact if they think you're at fault.
Fuel shortages are common, particularly in the northern regions. Long lines at service stations often block traffic in urban centres.
More information:
Motorbikes are banned in some cities. Check with your travel insurer if your policy covers you to ride a motorcycle.
Always wear a helmet.
We recommend using car hire services organised through a major hotel, in preference to using local taxis, due to poor safety standards and risk of petty crime.
Public transport is often unsafe, due to:
Avoid using public transport. Travelling in a locked motor vehicle is a safer option.
At sea or on ships in port, you may encounter:
This risk has increased in the coastal areas of the Gulf of Guinea, including the Niger Delta. Criminals with speedboats and high-calibre weapons are common in these areas.
The Nigerian Navy has limited capacity to respond to piracy. The International Maritime Bureau issues piracy reports.
Domestic and international flights are often overbooked, delayed or cancelled suddenly.
Safety and reliability of some domestic airlines is a concern. Airlines may not have strict maintenance procedures and safety standards. If you travel on these airlines, insurance may not cover you.
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Nigeria's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
National emergency numbers, 119 and 112, can be unreliable.
Call 119 or 112.
Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest hospital.
Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest police station.
Police can be slow to respond to reports of criminal activity. Sometimes they may not investigate your report. Sometimes they don't respond at all.
Always try to get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
Australia has a High Commission in Abuja. However, it's currently only providing limited consular and passport services. Check before you visit.
Australia has an honorary consulate in Lagos. It provides limited consular assistance and doesn’t issue Australian passports.
The High Commission and Consulate don't process visa requests.
Phone: +234 (0) 9460 6960
Email: ahc.abuja@dfat.gov.au
Website: nigeria.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Nigeria
Twitter: @AusHCAbuja
Check the High Commission website for details about services, opening hours, appointments and any temporary closures.
8th Floor, Union Marble House
1 Alfred Rewane Road (formerly Kingsway), Falomo
Ikoyi Lagos, Nigeria
Phone: (+234 0) 803 300 7291
Email: alandavies@jamescubittgroup.com
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.