The United Kingdom has issued a new travel advisory cautioning its citizens against visiting several parts of Nigeria due to rising insecurity, terrorism and kidnapping incidents across the country.
In the latest Foreign Travel Advice released by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the British government warned that insecurity “is increasing across Nigeria,” with violent crime and intercommunal conflict reported in multiple regions.
The advisory specifically urged British nationals to avoid all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina and Zamfara states, citing heightened threats of attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province.
According to the FCDO, these threats are particularly pronounced around transport hubs, religious centres and large public gathering.
“There is a high and increasing threat from terrorist groups, particularly in the North-East,” the advisory stated.
“Humanitarian workers, vehicles and infrastructure may also be targeted by armed groups.”
The UK also advised against all but essential travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau and Taraba states, as well as areas outside the city centre within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The office noted a rise in violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking and kidnapping, which it said is spreading from the outskirts of Abuja into more central and affluent neighbourhoods.
“British government staff in Nigeria have been advised to limit movement to within the Abuja metropolitan area,” the FCDO added.
It further warned that protests in the capital city could escalate suddenly, advising travellers to avoid large gatherings and follow security directives issued by local authorities.
In the South-South and parts of the South-East, the advisory warned against travel to riverine areas in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, citing the activities of militant groups and the risk of kidnapping and attacks on oil and gas facilities.
The UK also flagged rising separatist tensions in the South-East, noting the threat of clashes between security forces and armed groups.
Meanwhile, the South-West, including Lagos, was described as experiencing frequent incidents of robbery, mugging and kidnapping, especially at night and in less secure urban areas.
“Travellers should remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary night movements and ensure personal security plans are in place,” the advisory said.
