Nigeria Safety Guide 2026

Nigeria is Africa's most populous nation and largest economy. While security challenges exist, millions of visitors travel safely each year, particularly to Lagos, Abuja and southern cities. The key is understanding regional differences and taking common-sense precautions.

Generally Safe Areas

• Lagos (Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lekki) - Commercial hub with good hotels, restaurants and security. The wealthier areas are well-patrolled.
• Abuja (Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II) - The capital has excellent infrastructure and lower crime in diplomatic zones.
• Calabar - Known as Nigeria's cleanest city, popular with tourists for the Calabar Carnival.
• Benin City - Historical sites and relatively calm atmosphere.
• Ibadan & Abeokuta - Yoruba heartland cities with cultural attractions and moderate safety.

Areas to Avoid

• Northeast (Borno, Yobe, Adamawa) - Active Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgency. Do not travel under any circumstances.
• Niger Delta (Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta) - Kidnapping, pipeline vandalism and militia activity. Exercise extreme caution.
• Northwest (Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina) - Banditry and kidnapping on rural roads.
• Jos/Plateau State - Periodic ethnic and religious violence.
• Border areas - Smuggling routes along Cameroon, Niger and Chad borders.

Required & Recommended Vaccinations

Malaria Prevention

Nigeria has the highest malaria burden in the world. The entire country is a risk zone year-round. Take antimalarial medication (Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine), use DEET-based insect repellent, sleep under treated mosquito nets, and wear long sleeves at dusk and dawn.

Water Safety

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always drink sealed bottled water or water purified with tablets/filters. Avoid ice in drinks unless at high-end establishments. Use bottled water for brushing teeth.

Women Travellers

• Dress modestly, particularly in northern (Muslim-majority) states where sharia law applies
• Avoid travelling alone at night; use ride-hailing apps
• Unwanted attention is common - a firm but polite refusal works best
• Stick to well-populated areas and trusted hotel recommendations

LGBTQ+ Travellers

Night Safety

• Avoid walking after dark, even in Lagos or Abuja
• Use Bolt or Uber for all nighttime journeys
• Stick to well-known nightlife areas (Victoria Island in Lagos)
• Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewellery

Road Safety

• Nigerian roads are among the most dangerous in Africa - drive defensively
• Avoid intercity travel after dark due to poor lighting and bandits
• Hire a local driver rather than self-driving if possible
• Keep doors locked and windows up in traffic
• Interstate road travel requires extra vigilance, especially Abuja-Kaduna corridor

Transport Safety

• Internal flights are the safest way to travel between cities
• Use only licensed ride-hailing services (Bolt, Uber, InDriver)
• Avoid danfo (yellow minibuses) in Lagos due to reckless driving
• BRT buses in Lagos are a safer public transport option

The primary terrorism threat comes from Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) operating in the northeast. Their activities are largely confined to Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.

• Avoid all travel to the northeast under any circumstances
• Major cities (Lagos, Abuja) have experienced isolated attacks but have heightened security
• Stay alert in public places, hotels, markets, and places of worship
• Register with your embassy on arrival for security updates
• Monitor local news through reliable sources

National Emergency: 112

Police: 199

Fire Service: 190

Ambulance (Lagos): 767

Road Safety (FRSC): 122

• Travel Information
• SIM Card Guide
• Packing List
• Public Holidays 2026
• Find an Embassy
• FAQ