UK issues travel advisory for 16 Nigerian states

The United Kingdom has warned its citizens against travelling to multiple regions in Nigeria amid escalating insecurity, citing threats from terrorism, violent crime, and intercommunal clashes.

In its latest advisory, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) urged Britons to exercise extreme caution, review safety measures, and have emergency plans ready.

The FCDO advised against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara, highlighting a “high and increasing threat” from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWAP), particularly near transport hubs, religious sites, and large gatherings.

Humanitarian workers and infrastructure in these areas were also identified as potential targets.

Travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba, and certain outskirts of Abuja was discouraged except for essential purposes.

The advisory noted that violent crime, often involving firearms, has spread into central and affluent areas of Abuja, and that British officials are currently restricted to movement within the city’s metropolitan area.

The UK also warned of protests in Abuja that can turn violent and advised travellers to avoid demonstrations, follow local police instructions, and monitor local media.

In the South-South and South-East, travel to riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River was flagged due to militant activity, high risk of armed robbery, and kidnapping.

The advisory highlighted ongoing clashes between secessionist groups and security forces in the south-east, warning that foreigners could be caught in crossfire.

For the South-West, including Lagos, the UK cited frequent incidents of mugging, kidnapping, car-jacking, and armed robbery.

While major terrorist attacks are rare, travellers were advised to remain vigilant, particularly at night, and seek safety guidance from local authorities, hotels, or employers.

The FCDO stressed that worsening conditions, especially in the north-east, could make evacuation difficult, and called on British nationals in Nigeria to maintain constant vigilance and prioritize personal security.