The UK government has updated its Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice on Nigeria, warning British nationals to avoid parts of the country due to escalating insecurity, terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime.
The guidance, issued under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, tightens restrictions in the North-East and reiterates caution across several northern and central states, riverine areas in the South-South, and select urban zones, including the outer suburbs of Abuja.
What the Advisory Says
In its latest update, the FCDO states that insecurity is increasing across Nigeria, with kidnapping, violent crime, and intercommunal clashes reported in all regions. British nationals are urged to exercise extreme caution, review personal security procedures, and keep contingency plans up to date.
“Do Not Travel” (All Travel Advised Against)
- Borno
- Yobe
- Adamawa
- Gombe
- Katsina
- Zamfara
The UK cites a “high and increasing threat” from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), particularly around transport hubs, religious sites, and large gatherings. The advisory notes that humanitarian personnel, vehicles, and infrastructure can also be targeted.
“All but Essential Travel” (Heightened Caution)
- Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba
- Outer suburbs of Abuja within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
According to the FCDO, violent crime, often involving firearms, has spread from outer suburbs into wealthier central areas of Abuja. UK government staff in Nigeria have been instructed to restrict movement largely to the metropolitan area.
Regional Hotspots and Risks
North-East: Ongoing Military Operations
The advisory highlights regular military operations in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe, warning of potential retaliatory attacks. For residents and visitors in Maiduguri, the FCDO cautions that deteriorating security could make exiting the city difficult.
South-East and South-South:
The UK warns against all travel to the riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states, citing active militant groups, previous attacks on oil and gas infrastructure, and a high risk of armed robbery and kidnap.
It also flags secessionist agitation in parts of the South-East, noting periodic clashes with security forces. While foreign nationals are not usually targeted, bystanders can be caught in crossfire or attacks.
South-West (Including Lagos):
In the South-West, the FCDO notes that mugging, kidnapping, carjacking, and armed robbery are common in major cities. While large-scale terrorist attacks are rare, authorities point to ISWAP-claimed incidents in 2022 and advise heightened vigilance, especially on the Lagos mainland and at night.
Protests and Public Gatherings
Periodic protests in Abuja can turn violent without warning. Travellers are advised to monitor local media, avoid demonstrations, and follow police instructions.