Nigeria travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently, especially in major cities. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Telecommunications and Internet access may also be disrupted. 

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Expect enhanced security measures and increased security presence
• Expect curfews and restrictions on movement
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Northwestern and Northeastern states

There is a threat of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping in the following northwestern and northeastern states:

• Adamawa
• Bauchi
• Borno
• Gombe
• Jigawa
• Kaduna
• Kano
• Katsina
• Sokoto
• Zamfara
• Yobe

Criminal groups continue to be active in the northwest, including in Kaduna state. Violent attacks involving gunfire and explosives, as well as kidnappings, are frequent. They have targeted:

• motorists
• transportation hubs and networks
• local communities

States of Plateau, Niger, Kogi and Taraba

Violent incidents, including bomb attacks resulting in many casualties, occur in the Plateau, Taraba, Niger and Kogi states. Sporadic episodes of inter-communal and sectarian violence occur in the states of Plateau and Taraba. There has also been an increase in kidnapping cases in Niger State. Further indiscriminate attacks and kidnappings are likely.

Niger Delta states

The security situation in the Niger Delta region remains fragile and unstable, particularly in the following states:

• Abia
• Akwa Ibom
• Anambra
• Bayelsa
• Delta
• Rivers (except in Port Harcourt)

Regional and ethnic conflicts between militant groups occur in the area and have led to incidents of violent crime and civil unrest. Armed robbery and kidnapping pose a significant threat in the Niger Delta states. Militant activity has also been directed at foreign interests. Armed groups have carried out successful attacks on oil facilities and workers, resulting in injuries and deaths.

• If you choose to remain in the Niger Delta states despite this advisory, be extremely vigilant at all times
• If travelling for business, ensure that meetings are held at a secure location and that your contact is known to you
• Seek the advice of local authorities when planning trips and leave a detailed itinerary with family or friends

Lagos

Crime levels are high in Lagos, and violent crime, including assaults and armed attacks, has been committed against foreign nationals and in the areas they frequent.

• Stay in accommodations with adequate security measures 
• Exercise caution at all times
• Avoid all unnecessary travel after dark

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Always carry certified photocopies of your official identification
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and your visa or travel permit in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized

Crime

There is a high level of crime throughout Nigeria, particularly in urban and border areas.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently, particularly in crowded places such as public markets and popular tourist sites. Crime increases after dark.

• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Avoid walking alone after dark
• Do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• Avoid all unnecessary travel after dark
• Do not leave valuables or bags unattended
• Be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs or travelling to and from banks
• Only go to beaches during daylight and in groups, especially Lekki and Bar beaches on Victoria Island
• Be wary of tourist excursions and only sign up with a reputable tour company

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs frequently throughout the country. Incidents include:

• armed robberies
• burglaries
• home invasions
• carjackings
• assaults

Robberies and muggings occur regularly. They are often conducted by large and well-armed criminal groups and usually occur in locations frequented by expatriates. Crimes have been committed by individuals posing as police or military personnel, particularly in the Niger Delta states.

There has been an increase in violent crime in the outer suburbs of Abuja and in the Federal Capital Territory, where local authorities regularly carry out anti-crime operations.

Kidnapping

Kidnappings of foreign and Nigerian nationals occur regularly throughout Nigeria. The threat is greater in northern, northeastern and southern Nigeria.

Residents and foreigners alike have been abducted, often by small armed groups, and held captive, sometimes for several days, until ransom was paid. In some cases, the victims have been executed or reported missing.

Throughout the Niger Delta states, numerous foreigners, mainly oil and gas facility workers, have been abducted, and, in some cases, killed. Kidnappings for ransom targeting foreigners have increased in the wealthy areas of Lagos and the surrounding states of Ogun, Osun and Ondo.

The kidnapping threat has also increased in the Federal Capital Territory, especially in Abuja and its surrounding forested areas, which you should avoid.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt, the northern and the northeastern areas of the country. Numerous attacks on individuals, groups and security forces have been conducted across the country, including in Abuja. Further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations
• schools, including universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• cultural venues

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events 
• religious holidays 
• public celebrations 
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

State of emergency

Local authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various states to fight against crime or terrorist activities.

When a state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights to: 

• restrict freedom of movement 
• conduct searches 
• make seizures 
• detain persons of interest 

If you are travelling in an area where a state of emergency is in effect: 

• expect many checkpoints 
• always carry valid identification 
• allow extra time to reach your destination 
• follow the instructions of local authorities 
• monitor local media for the latest information 

Curfews

Nigerian authorities regularly impose curfews to restore order after violence erupts in volatile areas. Curfews and restrictions on the movement of vehicles can be imposed, amended and lifted on short notice throughout Nigeria.

Road

Road safety

Road safety is poor throughout the country. Armed robberies occur on highways. Accidents are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions are poor throughout the country. During the rainy season, generally from May to October, road conditions deteriorate considerably due to flash floods and driving can become dangerous.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• insufficient lighting and vehicles not using their headlights
• numerous motorcycles
• poorly maintained roads and potholes
• lack of traffic signs and few working traffic lights
• traffic jams and heavy traffic, especially in urban areas
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and speeding is common. They don’t always yield to pedestrians or other drivers. There is limited roadside assistance.

If you choose to drive in Nigeria:

• always drive defensively
• familiarize yourself with your itinerary before you leave
• avoid travelling after dark
• travel in a convoy

Roadblocks

Police checkpoints are common throughout the country.

• Be prepared to present a certified copy of your identification
• Do not hand over your money or original documents unless you feel threatened 
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Remain calm and courteous

Criminals set up unofficial roadblocks in several areas, particularly in Northen Nigeria and in border areas. Law-enforcement officers and criminal gangs alike often use violence to extort bribes.

Carjacking

Incidents of armed carjackings occur along urban and rural roads throughout the country, however they are of particular concern:

• on the roads leading to international and domestic airports
• on main highways between state capitals
• in main cities, including Abuja and Lagos
• on major transit routes such as Abuja-Kaduna highway

Many schemes are used to stop cars, such as scattering nails on the road, or individuals, including pregnant women, pretending to be injured.

• Avoid driving after dark, especially outside of major cities, due to the increased likelihood of armed banditry and kidnapping
• Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times
• Avoid stopping in isolated areas or to fix a flat tire
• Do not stop on the road to offer help to others
• Be wary of strangers offering to help you

Fraud

Credit card, debit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Cybercrime

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information. 

Criminals can monitor social media and listen to your phone conversations. 

Romance scams through dating sites and/or social media have occurred.

• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media 
• Use your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks 
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online 
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Nigeria to meet an online acquaintance in person
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location 
• Know the risk of inviting new acquaintances to your accommodation 
• Do not discuss travel plans or any other personal information within earshot of strangers

Fuel shortages

Fuel shortages occur regularly. Local authorities may impose fuel rationing measures that could lead to a reduction of essential services and line-ups at gas stations.

• Fill your gas tank before you travel, especially if you are travelling to a remote area
• Always carry a cell phone and a charger
• Keep a list of emergency numbers on hand
• Carefully plan all road travel

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

2SLGBTQI+ persons have been harassed and verbally and physically abused.

Public displays of affection are not socially acceptable.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur every year. Beaches are generally unsupervised. There is no warning system to alert of unsafe conditions.

Water safety abroad

Piracy

Piracy is an ongoing threat in the Niger Delta states. Armed attacks against ships and oil platforms, kidnappings and hostage takings occur in coastal waters in the Gulf of Guinea.

Insurgents equipped with high-calibre weapons navigate the area in speedboats and pose security risks.

Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Nigerian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. 

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you expect to leave Nigeria.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Employment visa: required
Temporary work permit: required
Student visa: required

Verify that the length of stay indicated on your entry stamp and on your visa match. If the handwritten dates are hard to read, seek clarification from the immigration officer at the port of entry or a Nigeria Immigration Service office.

Nigeria Immigration Service 

Passport requirements for dual citizens

If you have dual citizenship, you must enter and leave Nigeria on your Nigerian passport.

If your Nigerian passport expires during your stay in Nigeria, you must obtain a new one before leaving. Renewing a Nigerian passport could cause considerable delays to your travel plans.

To avoid delays, dual citizens should ensure that their Nigerian passport is valid upon entry and for the duration of their stay in Nigeria.

Border crossings

Land border crossings with Benin, Niger, Chad and Cameroon may close on short 

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section). 

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans. Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick, avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat.

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

The quality of the health care varies significantly throughout the country. Health care is generally good in certain private facilities in Abuja and Lagos but is usually very limited or unavailable in rural areas.

Public and private medical facilities usually require an initial cash deposit, a payment guarantee, or a confirmation that you have medical insurance. Outside of major cities, only a cash deposit will be accepted.

You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Nigeria.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Nigeria.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Sharia

Nigeria’s customs, laws and regulations closely adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs. Sharia has been adopted in the following 12 northern states:

• Bauchi
• Borno
• Gombe
• Jigawa
• Kaduna
• Kano
• Katsina
• Kebbi
• Niger
• Sokoto
• Yobe
• Zamfara

Sharia may be applicable to non-Muslims in some parts of the country. Transgressions could be punished by detention or other penalties.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Ramadan

In 2026, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 17.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In the north, women are advised to cover their legs and travel with a scarf to cover their head and arms when required.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Nigerian laws criminalize sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.

The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act provides for lengthy jail sentences for offences related to entering same-sex marriages or civil unions, displaying same-sex amorous relationships, and participating in 2SLGBTQI+ organisations. In certain Northern states where Sharia is in effect, penalties can include the death sentence.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Nigeria. Prison sentences are severe.

Canadians may also be subject to criminal proceedings in Canada for crimes of this nature committed while abroad.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Nigeria.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Nigeria, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Nigeria.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Nigeria by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Nigeria to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Imports

It is illegal to import:

• beer, mineral water, soft drinks or sparkling wine
• fruits, vegetables, cereals or eggs
• fabrics, including mosquito netting
• jewellery and precious metals

Exports

It is illegal to export pieces of African art, particularly antiques, without written authorization from the Department of Antiquities.

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes: 

• airports
• government buildings
• police stations and military installations

Seek permission before taking photos of official buildings and individuals.

Smoking

Smoking is banned in public places across the country.

Driving

To drive in Nigeria, you must have:

• a valid Canadian driver’s licence
• an international driving permit

If you stay in Nigeria for more than 3 months, you must obtain a Nigerian driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency of Nigeria is the naira (NGN).

The Nigerian economy is cash-based. U.S. dollars are widely accepted. ATMs are not widely available outside of major cities.

Credit cards are accepted at some major hotels in Abuja and Lagos. However, you should avoid using credit and debit cards due to the high potential for fraud and other criminal activity.

The exportation of naira is limited by law to certain amounts.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Nigeria. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information. 

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to October. During this period, rainfall is abundant and may result in localized flash flooding. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest information, including on road conditions 
• Stay away from flooded areas 
• Monitor weather reports 
• Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders 

Heat waves

During the dry season, from November to April, Nigeria periodically experiences heat waves. Temperatures soar well above 40°C for multiple days, especially in central and northern Nigeria.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Harmattan

The Harmattan is a sand-laden and dusty wind that blows in from the Sahara Desert, typically between November and March, with peak intensity from December to February. These dust-filled winds may deteriorate the air quality and affect the health of people with respiratory ailments.

The Harmattan also reduces visibility, which can create hazardous driving conditions, especially during storms

During a storm:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local media for the latest information