The Government of Canada has issued a stark warning to its citizens, strongly advising against all non-essential travel to Nigeria. This updated advisory, released on 24 November 2025, highlights the severe and persistent security challenges plaguing the nation.
Nationwide Security Threats and Regional Breakdown
The Canadian government states that the security situation throughout Nigeria remains unpredictable. The advisory cites a dangerous mix of terrorism, violent crime, inter-communal clashes, armed attacks, and widespread kidnappings as the primary reasons for the warning. While the guidance applies to the entire country, including the capital city of Abuja, it makes specific distinctions for certain areas.
The cities of Lagos and Calabar are singled out as places where travellers should exercise a high degree of caution, primarily due to criminal activity. However, the warning is far more severe for numerous other regions where Ottawa recommends avoiding all travel.
States to Avoid Entirely
The Canadian advisory lists several states where the threat level is deemed unacceptably high. These are categorized by region:
- Northwest: Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
- Northcentral: Plateau, Niger, and Kogi.
- Northeast: Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Taraba, and Yobe.
- Niger Delta: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (with the exception of Port Harcourt, where non-essential travel should still be avoided).
Additionally, the government warns against travel to border corridors within 10 kilometres of Cameroon, Niger, and northern Benin.
Specific Risks and Hazards for Travellers
The advisory provides a detailed breakdown of the risks facing visitors and residents alike. Kidnapping for ransom is described as a widespread problem, occurring in the north, northeast, southern regions, and even in affluent neighbourhoods of Lagos and surrounding states.
Furthermore, Canada highlights a persistent threat of terrorism across Nigeria. Terrorist groups have carried out attacks on security forces, public venues, transport networks, and places of worship. The notice warns that such attacks could occur during political events, religious holidays, and other major public gatherings.
For daily life, the risks are equally daunting. Criminal activities like armed robbery, carjackings, and home invasions are frequent, often involving organised groups. The advisory also mentions that foreign nationals have been targeted by individuals posing as security personnel. Other concerns include hazardous road travel, unsafe public transportation, piracy, frequent power outages, and widespread fraud involving ATMs and online interactions.
Legal and Cultural Considerations
Canada's travel notice also addresses specific legal and social contexts within Nigeria. It warns that 2SLGBTQI+ persons may face discrimination, harassment, or prosecution under Nigerian law. Women travelling alone are also advised to exercise caution due to reports of harassment.
The government reminds dual Canadian-Nigerian citizens that they must enter and exit the country using a valid Nigerian passport. Health alerts for measles, polio, and diphtheria are also in effect, with travellers urged to ensure their routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
For those who must travel to or remain in Nigeria despite the warnings, the final advice is to remain extremely vigilant, monitor local media, and follow all instructions from Nigerian authorities.
