Populous, culturally rich, and home to many natural landmarks and diverse wildlife, Nigeria is one of the most exciting destinations in Africa. Arty, cool, and hugely influential in the region, it’s a fantastic destination, whether you’re into big-city life or serene birdwatching retreats. Precautions however, must be taken before travel to the country as terrorist threats, violent crime and mass protests are not uncommon. As of August 2019, Nigeria has been polio-free for three years and is on its way to being established as a polio-free country.

The country’s largest city, Lagos, is booming with oil wealth. Explore contemporary and traditional Nigerian works in the excellent Nike Art Gallery, or check out events at the multipurpose arts centre, Terra Kulture. Learn about the country’s history at the enormous National Museum, or shop till you drop at the sprawling, thoroughly affordable, Lekki Market. See many different bird species, monkeys and crocodiles in the wetlands of Lekki Conservation Centre, and head to just outside Oshogbo for the beautiful Osun Sacred Grove, a beautiful area of rainforest which now also homes a number of sculptures by Austrian sculptor Suzanne Wenger. Olumo Rock stands majestically behind the chaotic streets of Abeokuta, where Brazilian and Cuban mansions lie beside roughly-made shacks. Nearby the capital Abuja, you’ll find one of Nigeria’s most recognisable features; the 725-metre-high Zuma Rock appears on the country’s banknotes and is an iconic symbol to Nigerians.

Violent Crime and Terrorism

Due to the prevalence of terrorist threats and violent protests in the following, you are advised to travel with utmost precaution and with security arrangements in place to the following areas in Nigeria:

• Borno State
• Yobe State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State
• riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States
• within 20km of the border with Niger in Zamfara State
• Bauchi State
• Zamfara State
• Kano State
• Kaduna State
• Jigawa State
• Katsina State
• Kogi State
• within 20km of the border with Niger in Sokoto and Kebbi States
• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers State
• Abia State

There is a high risk of kidnapping in the North East region of Nigeria and foreigners are disproportionately targeted. Terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa have a presence in North East Nigeria as well as in some northern and middle belt states such as Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Kaduna, Niger and Adamawa and you are at risk of terrorist attacks or kidnappings especially if you are a humanitarian aid or private sector worker who is stationed in any of these areas. You are advised to consult professional security services for advice before travel and consider security detail during your travels in Nigeria.

Keep your friends and family informed of your itinerary during your time in Nigeria and make sure that you do not travel alone or unaccompanied by security detail in areas where strife and violence is common. Violent crime is common, as are violent protests and public demonstrations, even in cities. Avoid wandering off alone and keep your belongings secure. In the case that you see a large crowd gathering or any telltale signs of a violent demonstration, leave the area soon as possible.

Yellow Fever 

A whopping 930 cases of Yellow Fever have been reported in Nigeria in a period of just 5 months in 2019. Between May and January 2019, there has been an outbreak of the disease in Nigeria, so it is of utmost importance that you ensure that you have been vaccinated against the disease at least 10 days before you arrive in Nigeria. Take mosquito bite avoidance measures to further protect yourself from the disease – bring along mosquito repellent containing DEET, mosquito nets, permethrin to treat your clothes and mosquito net with, and loose clothing that provides maximum coverage. Avoid wandering out after dusk and before dawn.

Lassa Fever

Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic fever that is spread through contact with animals, is endemic in Nigeria. Between the months of January and May 2019, 569 cases of the disease and 128 deaths from the disease have been reported in Nigeria, making the outbreak one of the most severe ones in recent years. The disease is very dangerous and cause shock, seizures and even coma during later stages. 25% of those who survive the disease become deaf and in fatal cases, death usually occurs within 14 days due to extensive haemorrhage.

Since humans become infected with Lassa Fever by coming into contact with the urine or faeces of infected animals such as rats or with the urine, faeces or bodily secretions of another person infected with the disease, good hygiene is essential in preventing the disease.

Travellers are advised to stay away from those who they suspect may be infected and from areas where rats are common. Food and water should only be consumed after travellers check that they are clean and prepared with good hygiene standards. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after visiting the toilet.