The United Kingdom has issued a stark warning to its citizens, advising against travel to a significant number of Nigerian states due to a severe and worsening security situation across the country.
Detailed Breakdown of the UK Travel Advisory
In a recent update to its Foreign Travel Advice, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) explicitly advised against all travel to the states of Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara. The advisory cites a high and increasing threat from terrorist groups, specifically naming Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa. These groups are considered a particular danger around transport hubs, religious sites, and large public gatherings.
Furthermore, the UK government has advised against all but essential travel to an additional ten states and a part of the capital. This list includes Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, and Taraba. Notably, the warning also extends to the outer suburbs of Abuja within the Federal Capital Territory, where violent crime involving firearms has reportedly increased and spread into more central and affluent areas.
Regional Security Threats Across Nigeria
The advisory paints an alarming picture of insecurity that is not confined to one region. In the North-East, where regular military operations are ongoing in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe, there remains a significant risk of retaliatory attacks. British nationals in Maiduguri were specifically warned that a further deterioration in security could make it extremely difficult to leave the city.
For the Niger Delta region, the FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states, citing active militant groups that frequently attack oil and gas infrastructure. The risk of armed robbery and kidnapping is described as high.
In the South-East, the UK expressed concern over secessionist groups whose attacks and clashes with security forces pose a risk to bystanders. While foreigners are not typically targeted, the advisory warns that there is a real danger of being caught in the crossfire during an attack.
Even in the South-West, including major cities like Lagos, the government notes that violent crimes such as mugging, kidnapping, car-jacking, and armed robbery are common.
Precautions and Recommendations for Travelers
The FCDO is calling on all British nationals currently in Nigeria to exercise extreme caution. They are urged to review their personal safety procedures regularly and ensure they have robust contingency plans in place. The advisory also highlights the potential for protests in Abuja to turn violent and advises people to monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and follow instructions from local authorities.
This comprehensive warning underscores the UK's grave assessment of the security landscape in Nigeria, urging its citizens to prioritize their safety above all else.
