The festive season in Nigeria is a time of vibrant energy, marked by bustling airports, crowded roads, and joyous family reunions. However, this beautiful chaos also brings increased risks that demand heightened awareness. Staying safe doesn't mean missing out on the fun; it simply means being prepared. Whether you're a returning resident or celebrating at home, here are ten essential safety tips to ensure your holidays are memorable for all the right reasons.
Navigating Travel and Movement Safely
Travelling within Nigeria in December presents unique challenges. The excitement can lead to distractions, making it crucial to keep your belongings secure. Avoid handing luggage to unsolicited helpers at airports and always double-check your items before leaving any terminal. Ensure your passport, phone, and wallet are stored in a secure compartment of your bag.
For road trips, thorough planning is non-negotiable. The surge in interstate traffic makes roads unpredictable. Before embarking on any journey, conduct a comprehensive check of your vehicle, focusing on tyres, brakes, headlights, and engine fluids. This simple step can prevent dangerous breakdowns, a critical consideration given the current security landscape. Opt for registered public transport services over random roadside vehicles, and prioritise daytime travel to significantly reduce risks of accidents, robberies, and kidnappings.
Your social movements require equal caution. The irresistible nightlife in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt demands intentionality. Always inform a trusted person of your whereabouts, your company, and your expected return time. Keep your phone charged, avoid walking alone late at night, and use verified ride-hailing services. This layer of awareness is a simple yet powerful protective measure.
Protecting Your Finances, Home, and Health
Shopping, both offline and online, becomes a hotspot for opportunistic crime. In physical markets and malls, keep bags in front of you, avoid flashing cash, and only use secure ATMs. For online purchases, stick to verified vendors with genuine reviews and customer photos. Scammers design convincing holiday offers, so always confirm details before sending money.
Financial fraud peaks during this period. Be extremely wary of any messages requesting your BVN, OTP, or banking passwords. Legitimate financial institutions will never ask for these details. Double-check all account numbers before transferring funds and be alert to fake credit alerts, especially if you run a business. Slowing down to verify every transaction is far better than facing regret later.
At home, the combination of heavy cooking, increased generator use, and playful children raises the risk of accidents. Most holiday house fires stem from unattended pots, leaking gas cylinders, and overloaded sockets. Ensure generators are placed outside, turn off appliances when not in use, and double-check that all gas knobs are closed. Keep hazardous items like matches and sharp objects away from children.
Nigeria's unpredictable weather also demands health vigilance. Stay hydrated, use moisturisers, and carry hand sanitiser as gatherings can spread infections. If travelling to areas with mosquitoes, use repellent and sleep under a treated net to prevent malaria, which remains common after the rainy season.
Staying Alert in Crowds and Online
Concerts and large gatherings are seasonal highlights but require crowd awareness. Upon arrival, identify exit points and avoid congested areas or barricades. If you sense tension or sudden chaos, move away immediately. Enjoy the event, but remember that your personal safety outweighs any performance.
In the digital realm, exercise discretion with what you share online. While it's tempting to post real-time updates of airport arrivals, new purchases, or party locations, this can create security risks. Cybercriminals and burglars often monitor social media for such details. Share those memorable moments wisely, preferably after you have left the location.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, trust your instincts. Nigerians are known for a strong intuitive sense. If a person, place, or situation feels unsafe, it likely is. Do not ignore discomfort or compromise your safety to be polite. The safest decision is often to walk away, change plans, or simply say no.
By incorporating these practical precautions, you can fully embrace the vibrant, chaotic, and beautiful Nigerian holiday season. Prioritising safety ensures you step into the new year with joy, peace of mind, and wonderful memories.
