The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has released a new travel advisory warning British nationals against visiting several parts of Nigeria due to a surge in insecurity, terrorism, and violent crime across the country.
In the updated Foreign Travel Advice published on GOV.UK and reviewed on Sunday, the FCDO noted that “insecurity is increasing across Nigeria” and warned that kidnapping, violent attacks, and intercommunal clashes are occurring in all regions.
The UK government urged its citizens in Nigeria to exercise “extreme caution”, review personal security measures, and maintain contingency plans in case of emergencies.
States on the “Do Not Travel” List
The FCDO advised against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara States, citing a “high and increasing threat” from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), especially around transport hubs, religious centers, and public gatherings.
It also warned that humanitarian workers, vehicles, and supplies may be targeted by both terrorists and criminal groups operating in these areas.
Partial Travel Restrictions
The UK further recommended against all but essential travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, and Taraba States, as well as the outer suburbs of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the advisory, violent crime involving firearms has spread from Abuja’s outskirts into more central and affluent neighborhoods, prompting British government staff to limit movement to the city’s metropolitan area.
Protests and Flashpoints
The FCDO also warned of potential unrest in Abuja, noting that protests “can turn violent without warning.” British nationals were advised to monitor local news, avoid demonstrations, and follow instructions from security forces.
Heightened Threats in the North-East and Niger Delta
In the North-East, the advisory highlighted ongoing military operations in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States, with a warning that any deterioration in security could make it “extremely difficult” to leave cities like Maiduguri.
In the South-East and South-South, the UK cautioned against all travel to the riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States, citing the activities of militant groups, attacks on oil facilities, and a “high risk of armed robbery and kidnapping.”
The FCDO reiterated that the security environment across Nigeria remains volatile, urging British nationals to remain alert and comply with all local and international safety advisories.
