Nigeria

Travellers to Nigeria are at risk of:

• terrorist attack
• kidnapping
• violent civil unrest
• crime

Exercise extreme caution. Get professional security advice. The security situation could change suddenly. You could get caught up in violence directed at others.

Gunmen attacked and killed 7 police officers in July 2018 in the Galadimawa area, near the International Airport in central Abuja. Police have increased patrols and checkpoints in Abuja and at entry points into the city.

Be alert when you approach police checkpoints. Take care when driving, especially at night. See Travel

In Nigeria, terrorist attacks:

• can happen anywhere and at any time
• are more frequent in the north-eastern states
• could target places popular with foreigners or crowded public areas

Australian officials take extra security measures when they travel outside Abuja and Lagos.

Militant groups, such as Boko Haram, also known as Islamic State West Africa Province, have attacked a range of targets in Nigeria.

Attacks can be large, simultaneous, and might include:

• explosives
• suicide bombers
• gunfire
• kidnapping

Targets for future attacks may include:

• Nigerian government and security institutions
• internally displaced persons' camps and international organisations
• police stations, diplomatic buildings, financial institutions
• oil facilities and infrastructure
• tourist and public areas, such as markets, hotels, licensed premises, restaurants and cinemas
• airports and transport
• schools, colleges, universities
• large sporting and recreation events

Terrorists may also attack during religious festivals, significant dates and national holidays, such as Ramadan, Christmas and Easter.

Secondary attacks sometimes target first responders.

In June 2017, Boko Haram staged multiple attacks in Maiduguri city in Borno state, killing at least 11 people.

Boko Haram plans to take control of large parts of north-eastern Nigeria. The group is active in:

• north-western states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe and Yobe
• north-eastern states of Kano and Kaduna

Boko Haram has kidnapped more than 1000 people and killed more than 10,000 people. More than 2.5 million people are now displaced as a result of recent attacks. Affected areas have been pillaged, buildings burnt and crops destroyed.

Parts of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe are still under Boko Haram's control. Recent attacks are in retaliation to continued military operations in the region.

Militant group, Niger Delta Avengers, has attacked multiple oil facilities and workers across the riverine region.

Many buildings in Nigeria have tightened security. A security presence may mean a higher risk of an attack. Less security may not mean less risk.

Authorities may set, change or cancel curfews without notice.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• always be alert to threats, especially in public places
• avoid known targets including popular hotels and crowds
• monitor the media for threats, curfews and other restrictions
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

Report any suspicious activity or items to police

If you're in a 'Do not travel' area, leave if it's safe to do so.

If you must go to a crowded place, have a clear exit plan.

If there's an attack, leave the area immediately. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

More information:

• Terrorism

The threat of kidnapping is high in all parts of Nigeria.

The UK Government has warned that Boko Haram plans to kidnap foreigners, including in Bama Local Government Area of Borno state, along the Kumshe-Banki axis.

In March 2019, the US Embassy also warned that terrorists plan to kidnap travellers in Borno state.

Kidnapping is a risk in the south-eastern riverine states of:

• Bayelsa
• Delta
• Rivers
• Akwa Ibom
• Cross River

Kidnappers usually target locals, but Westerners, including Australians, have been taken. Aid workers may be targets.

Kidnapping of Westerners occurs:

• mostly in regions where we advise Australians 'do not travel'
• sometimes in other parts of Nigeria, including Abuja and Lagos

Motives for kidnapping are usually:

• financial in the south — holding victims for ransom
• political in the north — holding victims for terrorist reasons

Kidnappers sometimes execute their victims.

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:

• Kidnapping

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Civil unrest can interrupt:

• phone networks
• road travel
• border crossings
• domestic and international flights

Long-standing tribal, religious, political and community arguments cause serious violence and unrest. Many civilians have already died. This occurs most often in central and northern Nigeria.

Protests by pro-Biafran groups occur in the south-east of Nigeria and can turn violent.

Political gatherings and demonstrations are becoming increasingly frequent in major Nigerian cities.

Foreigners generally aren't the target of political violence. However, you could get caught up in violence directed at others.

To protect yourself if you encounter a protest or local tension:

• monitor local media and other sources for updates
• plan for interruptions to phone and internet services
• avoid areas affected by protests or unrest
• follow the instructions of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Nigeria's crime rate is high. Criminals work alone or in gangs. Crime increases at night, particularly in major cities and on highways. You may encounter:

• kidnapping
• violent assault
• armed robbery and bandits
• home invasion, even in walled and guarded compounds
• carjacking

Assaults and robberies are common on public transport and when travellers are alone in taxis.

Petty crime

Petty crime is a risk, especially for foreigners in crowded places.

Crime is common on the roads near airports in Lagos, Abuja and other urban centres.

Criminals might pose as:

• police
• military personnel
• greeters or company delegates at airports and hotels

The security situation is more stable in Edo, Ekiti, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states. 

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• avoid travel after dark
• always pay attention to your security
• keep car windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• don't go alone to banks or ATMs
• only use ATMs in banks, hotels and secure buildings

To protect yourself from impostors: 

• make sure you know who you're meeting and where
• arrange airport and hotel pick-ups with someone you know
• always check the identity of the person who collects you

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially rape, get immediate medical attention. Nigeria has a high HIV/AIDS infection rate.

Police can be slow to respond to reports of criminal activity. Sometimes they don't respond at all.

Internet scams come in many forms, including romance, friendship, business and job offers. These scams often come from Nigeria.

Scam victims often lose money.

To protect yourself from scams:

• be wary of online contact from people you don't know
• don't send money to anyone until you've thoroughly checked them

If you suspect a scam, get legal advice.

Don't travel to Nigeria to get your money back or to get revenge. You could be in danger.

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.

To protect your family and friends from scammers:

• be careful about giving out personal information or disposing of personal documents while in Nigeria
• tell friends and family to contact you directly if they receive any emails about you

If friends and family can't contact you directly, they should contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.

Check with the Australian High Commission in Abuja if you're asked to send money or details to them (see Local contacts).

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.

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:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 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:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

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.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medications
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is common in Nigeria.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Nigeria. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated for before you leave.

Other common insect-borne diseases include:

• malaria
• dengue

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Lassa fever may be a risk 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:

• avoid contact with rodents and their droppings
• keep food in rodent-proof containers
• don't eat any food if it could be contaminated
• avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of infected people
• avoid contact with items that may have come in contact with an infected person's blood or body fluids (clothes, bedding, needles, medical equipment)

Common waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include:

• cholera
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• tuberculosis
• rabies
• measles
• meningitis
• monkeypox

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Monkeypox is transmitted to humans from animals, usually monkeys, rodents, and squirrels.

In areas where monkeypox occurs, avoid:

• contact with rodents and primates
• contact with people infected with monkeypox
• items that may have come in contact with an infected person

Polio

Polio is widespread in Nigeria.

Stay up to date with polio vaccinations, including a booster dose, as per the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

Medical facilities

Facilities outside Nigeria's major cities are poor, and are even more basic in rural areas.

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.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They may include long jail terms and large fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty and sharia law

The death penalty can apply for serious crimes like murder and armed robbery.

Sharia law operates in 12 northern states:

• Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara in the north west
• Niger in the north
• Bauchi, Bomo, Gombe, and Yobe in the north east

Sharia law is increasingly enforced in these areas.

Same-sex sexual activity between adults can carry the death penalty in these states. Stealing and adultery may also lead to harsh punishment.

LGBTI laws

Same-sex relationships are illegal in all parts of Nigeria. They are also socially unacceptable.

It's illegal to:

• enter into a same-sex marriage or civil union
• plan or take part in a same-sex marriage ceremony
• register, operate or visit gay clubs, societies or organisations
• make any public show of a same-sex relationship
• cross-dress

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Other laws

It's illegal to photograph or film around:

• government buildings
• military sites
• diplomatic premises
• airports
• bridges

Restricted areas may not be well defined or signposted.

It's also illegal to:

• smoke in public places
• litter
• export African art or artefacts without a permit from the Department of Antiquities

You're not allowed to import:

• beer, mineral water, soft drinks or sparkling wine
• fruits and vegetables
• cereals
• eggs
• textiles
• jewellery or precious metals

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

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:

• Dual nationals

Nigeria is ethnically and religiously diverse. Behave and dress conservatively, especially outside of urban areas.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan will be from late April to late May in 2020. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

Avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public and around people who are fasting.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

Visitor visas

If you decide to travel to Nigeria, despite our advice, you need a visa or Residence Permit (CERPAC or Green Card) to visit.

Some travellers can get a visa on arrival, subject to strict conditions. You'll need a letter of approval before you travel.

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 Immigration Service 

HIV/AIDS

If you have HIV/AIDS, you may not be able to enter Nigeria. This applies to visitors and expats.

You may need an HIV test if you plan to marry a Nigerian citizen.

Yellow fever vaccination

You may 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:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

Australian residents

Australian expats in Nigeria must register with Nigerian immigration authorities.

More information:

• Nigeria Immigration Service

Validity

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.

Lost or stolen 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:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The local currency is the Nigeria Naira (NGN).

Declare all amounts over NGN5000 when you arrive. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Facilities for changing traveller's cheques and Australian dollars are very limited.

US dollars are accepted at:

• major hotels
• banks
• foreign exchange services

Nigeria is mostly a cash economy. It's hard to use non-Nigerian debit and credit cards. Even local cards may not work outside of larger cities. 

Fraud is a risk when using debit and credit cards. Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work in Nigeria.

Borders

Nigeria's borders can close at short notice. Seek local advice.

Driving permit

International Driving Permits aren't recognised in Nigeria.

You must have a local driver's licence.

Road travel

Driving in Nigeria is dangerous due to:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• poor local driving habits
• unpredictable pedestrians
• poor signage
• lack of working traffic lights
• poor road lighting

You're 4 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Nigeria than in Australia.

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:

• authorised and unauthorised police and military roadblocks
• vehicle checkpoints
• traffic diversions
• parking restrictions

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.

Roadside assistance is either limited or unavailable.

Fuel shortages are common, particularly in the northern regions. Long lines at service stations often block traffic in urban centres.

If you plan to drive:

• check your insurance cover
• understand local traffic laws and practices
• make sure you have enough fuel
• avoid driving at night, where possible
• wear a seatbelt
• keep your car windows up and doors locked, even when moving

Be alert to security threats, particularly in traffic jams and at traffic lights.

If police stop you, follow their instructions.

When travelling outside major cities:

• get local advice on road conditions and security before you travel
• leave details of your plans with someone you trust
• travel in a convoy where possible
• carry water, a full first aid kit and multiple forms of communication

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Motorbikes are banned in some cities. Check with your travel insurer if your policy covers you to ride a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Regular taxis and motorcycle taxis are common. They can pose a serious danger to passengers, other road users and pedestrians.

Use car hire services that include a local driver. These services are available at most major hotels.

Public transport

Public transport is often unsafe, due to:

• unqualified and uninsured drivers
• poor vehicle maintenance
• high speed driving
• overcrowding

Trains are often overcrowded and are targeted by criminals.

Avoid using public transport. Travelling in a locked motor vehicle is a safer option.

Sea travel

At sea or on ships in port, you may encounter:

• piracy
• hijacking
• kidnapping
• armed robbery

This risk has increased in the coastal areas of the Gulf of Guinea, including near Lagos and 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.

Air travel

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:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

National emergency numbers, 119 and 112, can be unreliable. They may not work in parts of the country.

Fire and rescue services

Call 119 or 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

Police

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.

You can also access limited services from the Australian Consulate in Lagos.

The High Commission and Consulate don't process visa requests.

Australian High Commission, Abuja

Office mobile: (+234 0) 906 540 5487
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.

Australian Consulate, Lagos

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

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia