Safety Tips for Travelling in Nigeria

• North-East (Borno, Yobe, Adamawa): Active insurgency zone. Do not travel under any circumstances.
• North-West (Zamfara, parts of Kaduna, Katsina, Niger): Banditry and kidnapping risk. Avoid unless essential.
• Niger Delta (Bayelsa, Rivers rural areas): Occasional militancy and oil-related conflicts in remote areas. Port Harcourt city is generally safe.

Use Ride-Hailing Apps

Bolt and Uber are widely available in Lagos and Abuja. They are the safest transport option because the driver's identity is verified, the trip is tracked by GPS, and you can share your journey with contacts.

Avoid "One-Chance" Vehicles

Never enter an unmarked vehicle with passengers already inside, especially in Lagos. "One-chance" is a term for vehicles used in robbery - criminals posing as fellow passengers will rob you once inside.

Road Travel

• Avoid night driving outside major cities
• Use reputable bus companies for intercity travel (e.g., God Is Good Motors, ABC Transport, Peace Mass Transit)
• Keep doors locked and windows up in traffic
• Always have your driver's details if hiring a car with driver

Domestic Flights

Major airlines (Air Peace, Ibom Air, United Nigeria) are reliable for domestic travel. Flying is strongly recommended for long distances rather than overnight road trips.

• Airport "Helpers": Avoid unofficial porters or helpers at the airport. Use only official airport services.
• Currency Exchange Scams: Only exchange money at banks, official bureaux de change, or hotels. Never exchange on the street.
• Police/Military Checkpoints: Carry ID at all times. Be polite but firm. You should not need to pay any "fees" at legitimate checkpoints.
• ATM Fraud: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Use ATMs inside bank branches rather than standalone machines.
• Overcharging: Agree prices before services (taxis, markets). Ask locals about fair prices for context.

• Keep valuables hidden: Don't display expensive jewellery, cameras, or phones unnecessarily, especially in crowded areas.
• Carry copies: Keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and important documents separate from the originals. Store digital copies in your email.
• Register with your embassy: Let your country's embassy know you are in Nigeria, especially for extended stays.
• Local SIM card: Buy a Nigerian SIM (MTN, Airtel, or Glo) on arrival. Mobile data and calls are very cheap. Requires NIN registration.
• Dress appropriately: Dress modestly, especially in the north (Sharia-observant states). In Lagos, dress is more relaxed but avoid overly flashy outfits.
• Stay connected: Share your itinerary with family/friends. Check in regularly.
• Travel insurance: Absolutely essential. Ensure it covers medical evacuation.
• Trust your instincts: If a situation feels wrong, leave immediately.