dfat travel advice nigeria

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Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest.

Higher levels apply.

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services.

Call 119 or 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 119, 112 or go to the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall, including the capital Abuja.

Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall, including the capital Abuja, due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest.

Do not travel to Adamawa, Anambra, Akawa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Federal Capital Territory (excluding Abuja), Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara states.

Do not travel to:

• Akawa Ibom,
• Cross Rivers, 
• Federal Capital Territory (excluding Abuja),
• Zamfara states

due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest. 

• There's a high risk of terrorist attacks across Nigeria, including in the capital city Abuja, by various militant groups. Attacks are likely. Potential targets include a wide range of locations. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could affect foreign interests, including places visited by tourists. You should avoid places where crowds gather, including political meetings, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, sporting events, transport hubs and networks, law enforcement facilities, international organisations and camps for displaced people.
• The kidnapping threat is high throughout Nigeria. There is a high incidence of crime in Nigeria, including armed robbery, assault and maritime crime. The homicide rate is very high in many parts of the country.  Politically motivated murders and kidnappings have occurred. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• There's ongoing civil unrest in Nigeria. Avoid public demonstrations, rallies, gatherings and protest activity. These can turn violent and have sometimes, been subject to forceful suppression by security forces, including the use of live fire. There have been reports of strikes and protests in parts of Nigeria as a result of the cost-of-living crisis. Trading and business disruptions have occurred. Maintain stocks of essential supplies.
• Avoid intercity transport by road and rail due to the high incidence of attacks by criminal gangs, bandits and terrorists. If you undertake travel within Nigeria, research routes and get professional security advice and support before departing. Australian officials always use enhanced security measures if they do travel. Keep your car doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight. Arrange pick-ups and airport transfers with someone you know or by arranging a hotel car. Do not use ridesharing services, taxis, or public transport. Don't travel after dark.
• Internet romance, friendship and employment scams originate from Nigeria. If you travel to Nigeria as a scam victim, you may expose yourself to the threat of physical harm or theft. Be wary of online contact from people you don't know. Don't send money until you've checked who you're sending it to.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Yellow fever present. Other common insect-borne diseases include malaria and dengue. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Check your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.
• Foodborne, waterborne and infectious diseases found in Nigeria include cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, Lassa fever and monkeypox. Make sure food and drink utensils and containers are clean before use. Drink only bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked food. Don't swim in fresh water due to the risk of bilharzia in some locations.
• Medical facilities throughout Nigeria are often basic. You may need to pay up-front. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences and large fines. Serious crimes, such as murder and armed robbery, can attract the death penalty,  especially in Nigeria’s northern Sharia law states.
• Nigeria has strict laws against same-sex relationships. Avoid public displays of affection and cross-dressing. In Sharia law states, there are harsh punishments for same-sex relationships, adultery and stealing, as well as for speech or public expression deemed blasphemous or religiously disrespectful.
• Avoid  taking photographs near military or police locations, or in airports. Smoking in public places is prohibited according to law.
• Get written permission from relevant Nigerian authorities if you want to export African art or antiques. Make yourself aware of Nigerian restrictions on the import or export of foreign currencies, precious metals, and other items. Further information is available from the Nigerian Customs service .

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You'll need a visa to travel to Nigeria. You can apply and pay for a visa online on the Nigeria Immigration Service  website. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  nearest embassy or consulate  of Nigeria for details about visas, customs and quarantine rules.
• You no longer need to produce a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test prior to or on your arrival to Nigeria. You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate (yellow book) to enter.  Check the  Nigerian International Travel Portal  for the most up to date entry requirements.
• Avoid intercity transport by road and rail due to the high incidence of attacks by criminal gangs, bandits and terrorists. If undertaken, travel should involve professional security planning and support services.  Don't use ridesharing services, taxis, or public transport due to safety issues and the risk of crime.
• Hijacking, kidnapping and armed robbery at sea occurs in Nigerian waters, especially in the Niger Delta region. Piracy is a threat in the Gulf of Guinea. Check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.
• The  Australian High Commission in Abuja  and Australia’s Honorary Consulate in Lagos provide limited consular and passport services.
• If you travel to do not travel areas despite our advice, we may not be able to provide consular services.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

If you travel to Nigeria, you're at risk of:

• terrorist attack
• violent civil unrest

The security situation could change suddenly. You could get caught up in violence directed at others. If you travel to high-risk areas despite our advice, it is unlikely we will be able to provide consular services. Seek professional security advice and arrange personal security measures.

Violent crime is common in Nigeria, including in parts of Lagos and Abuja. Politically-motivated violence, including terrorist bombings and armed attacks.

Police maintain patrols and checkpoints in many locations in Nigeria, including at entry points into, and key junctions within cities. Police officers or people posing as police officers may ask for bribes. Intimidation may be used, including a display of weapons. We strongly recommend you don’t drive at night. See ' Travel '.

There's a high risk of terrorist attacks in Nigeria by various militant groups.  Further attacks are likely. 

Terrorist attacks:

• can happen anywhere and at any time, and
• may target venues visited by foreigners, including tourists.

Potential targets include a wide range of locations. Avoid places where crowds gather, this includes:

• political meetings and government buildings
• religious gatherings and places of worship
• schools, law enforcement facilities and international organisations
• markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants
• sports events
• transport hubs (including train networks)
• camps for displaced people.

Terrorists may seek to target the staff of, or locations closely associated with, foreign governments. Australian officials rarely travel outside of Abuja and Lagos, due to the high-risk security environment. Australian officials always use enhanced security measures when they travel.

Attacks can be large, simultaneous, and might include:

• suicide bombers

Boko Haram is active in north-eastern Nigeria, especially Borno State. Boko Haram also operates in adjacent north eastern states including Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe and Yobe, and, in the past, has launched attacks further afield such as in Abuja. Over 10,000 people are estimated to have been killed by Boko Haram in more than 10 years of conflict.

The Islamic State West Africa Province has become very active across Nigeria. They have shown a capability and intent to conduct operations in large parts of the country.

Criminal bandit groups are active throughout Nigeria. Attacks on civilians, motorists and local communities can involve gunfire, explosives and kidnapping.

Armed groups often target transport routes. Avoid intercity transport by road and rail. If despite our advice you undertake travel within Nigeria, research routes and get professional security advice and support before departing.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• always be alert to threats, especially in public places
• avoid non-essential travel
• avoid crowds, and if you must go to a crowded place, have a clear exit plan
• monitor the media for threats, curfews and other restrictions
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local news and security authorities.

If you're in a ' Do not travel ' area, leave if it's safe to do so.

If there's an attack, leave the area immediately. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

More information:

The threat of  kidnapping  is high in all parts of Nigeria,  including in Lagos and Abuja.  Kidnappings may be carried out for either political or criminal reasons, seeking political concessions or ransom payments.

Terrorist organisation, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province engage in kidnapping throughout Nigeria.

There is an increasing risk of kidnapping throughout Nigeria by criminal bandit groups, and an ongoing risk of kidnapping in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

Seaborne kidnapping in the Gulf of Guinea region is a significant risk.

Kidnappers usually target locals, but foreigners have been taken, including Australians in the past. Foreigners and aid workers may be targets.

If you travel to a high-risk area despite our advice, we may not be able to provide consular services. Seek professional security advice and arrange personal security measures.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Civil unrest and political tension

The risk of election related violence in Nigeria is high. Politically motivated murders and kidnappings have occurred. C lashes between political supporters and their opponents or government authorities is high.

While foreigners are not expected to be specifically targeted by election related violence, you may become caught up in election related events.

Demonstrations and protests

Foreigners generally aren't the target of civil unrest. However, you could get caught up in violence directed at others. Avoid public demonstrations, rallies, gatherings, and protest activity. These can turn violent and sometimes been subject to forceful suppression by government security forces, including the use of live fire. Government authorities may also impose local curfews with little warning.

Protests have the potential to occur spontaneously and in several locations at once. Protests can occur anywhere in Nigeria, including in Abuja and Lagos, resulting in violence, looting and deaths. The security situation can change rapidly.

Long-standing tribal, religious, political and community arguments can lead to violence and unrest. Recent civil unrest has also included conflict between cattle herders and villagers in many rural locations of Nigeria. 

There have been strikes and protests over the cost of living in Nigeria.

Trading and business disruptions have occurred as a result of this action. You should maintain stocks of essential supplies during this time.

To protect yourself if you encounter a protest or local tension:

• leave and avoid the immediate affected area
• monitor local media and other sources for updates
• plan for interruptions to phone and internet services
• follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Nigeria's crime rate is high. Crime increases at night, particularly in major cities and on highways. The following forms of crime are common:

• kidnapping  (see 'Kidnapping')
• violent  assault
• armed robbery  and banditry
• home invasion or burglary
• assaults and robberies on public transport or in taxis
• attacks on motorists travelling between cities (see ‘ Road travel ’).

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially  rape , get immediate medical attention. Nigeria has a higher rate of HIV/AIDS infections than Australia.

Petty crime

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• avoid travel alone or after dark
• avoid conspicuous displays of money in public places or in the presence of persons unknown to you
• take care when changing money or using ATMs
• secure valuable personal items when leaving hotel rooms
• arrange airport and hotel pick-ups with someone you know or by using the airport transfer arrangements of a major hotel
• use hotel car service arrangements rather than local taxis or rideshare apps.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travell ing overseas

Scams and fraud

Commercial and internet fraud often originates in Nigeria.

Criminals often seek details of 'safe' bank accounts overseas, such as yours. They claim they will transfer large sums of money into the account. Victims believe they will get a percentage of the amount involved.

Be aware of other scams where criminals:

• give fake cheques for 'urgent' shipments of goods
• ask for large fees for fake government contracts
• pretend to be calling from your financial institution
• extort money from people the scammers convince to travel to Africa for a business opportunity.

To protect yourself against a scam, be wary of:

• any request to send money to a person in Nigeria, including people you know
• any invitation to Nigeria to meet someone you have met over the internet.

Be careful about giving out personal information or disposing of personal documents while in Nigeria.

Scammers can access your personal data when you use open networks. Be careful when and where you use internet banking and other sites that transmit or store your data or passwords.

If you're travelling to Nigeria, your family and friends may receive bogus phone calls and emails from Nigeria. Scammers may claim that you're in legal, financial or medical trouble and that you need money.

Some scammers may pretend to work to for the Australian High Commission in Abuja and ask you to transfer money to the High Commission.  Check with the High Commission first through its official contact details if you're asked to send money or information to them (see ' Local contacts ' ).

Do not travel to Nigeria to try to get your money back or seek revenge. You could be in danger.

Bogus dating schemes

Scammers in West Africa operate fake online friendship, dating and marriage schemes to defraud and threaten foreigners. They do this by targeting Australians and other foreigners on internet dating sites or chat rooms. They may pose as a prospective friend or partner.

Once a friendship develops, the scammer asks for money to allow them to travel to Australia. In some cases, the scammer ends the relationship once the money has been sent. There's little chance of getting the money back.

In other cases, foreigners are lured to Africa to meet their prospective friend or partner. Once in Africa, they may become the victim of kidnapping, assault, robbery or extortion.

Climate and natural disasters

Nigeria experiences a rainy season is from May to October. In past years, there have been significant casualties and widespread damage to infrastructure caused by severe flooding. Essential services may be disrupted. Follow the advice of local authorities and check the media for updates. 

The dry season is from November to April. Temperatures may be higher than 40°C for multiple days, especially in the north.

Nigeria experiences the Harmattan from December to March. This seasonal wind blows sand and dust in the air. Dust storms are common and flights can change due to bad visibility.

Strong ocean currents occur along the coast. Conditions can change quickly. Several people drown each year.

If a  natural disaster  or  severe weather  happens, follow the advice of local authorities.

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• National Emergency Management Agency  

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Travel insurance may not cover you for travel to do not travel locations in Nigeria. 

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Nigeria. Take enough legal medication for your trip.  Do not assume the same medication will be available in Nigeria if your supply runs out. The quality of medication in Nigeria can't be guaranteed.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

HIV/AIDS  is common in Nigeria.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever  is common in Nigeria. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination, which is a requirement for entry into Nigeria. You must provide proof of vaccination in the form of a 'yellow book'.  Get vaccinated before you leave.

Other common insect-borne diseases include:

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Lassa fever  occurs in several states in Nigeria. Monitor local media and the World Health Organization for updates.

Lassa fever is spread through contact with rodents or body fluids of infected people. To protect yourself:

• avoid contact with rodents and their droppings
• keep food in clean, rodent-proof containers
• don't eat any food if it could be contaminated
• avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of infected people
• avoid contact with items that may have come in contact with an infected person's blood or body fluids (clothes, bedding, needles, medical equipment).

Monkeypox is endemic in parts of Africa. In areas where monkeypox is found, you should avoid contact with animals (especially primates and rodents), infected people and items that may have come into contact with them.

Common waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include:

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food or food that may have been washed in untreated water, including salads
• don't swim in fresh water.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities throughout Nigeria can be basic.

You may need to pay cash up-front before doctors, ambulances and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need evacuation to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They may include long jail terms and large fines.

• Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty

The death penalty can apply for serious crimes like murder and armed robbery in Nigeria.

Sharia law operates in 12 northern Nigerian states:

• Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara in the north west
• Niger in the north central region
• Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, and Yobe in the north east

Sharia law is increasingly enforced in these areas.

Serious crimes, including stealing, adultery and blasphemy may also lead to harsh punishment under Sharia Law,  including extra-judicial execution or corporal punishment. 

Same-sex relationships largely regarded as socially unacceptable and are illegal in all parts of Nigeria. 

It's illegal to:

• enter into a same-sex marriage or civil union
• plan or take part in a same-sex marriage ceremony
• register, operate or visit gay clubs, societies or organisations
• make any public show of a same-sex relationship
• cross-dress

Same-sex sexual activity between adults can carry severe penalties in states operating under Sharia law.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

It's illegal to photograph or film around:

• government buildings
• military sites
• diplomatic premises

Restricted areas may not be well defined or signposted.

It's also illegal to:

• smoke in public places
• export African art or artefacts without a permit from the relevant authorities.

See further information on items subject to import and export restrictions for travellers from Nigeria’s Customs service , including under ‘passenger concessions’.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

If you're an Australian-Nigerian dual national and aged between 18 and 30, you may be required to join the National Youth Service Corps program.

Nigerian authorities may insist dual nationals enter and exit on a Nigerian passport.

Contact an  embassy or consulate of Nigeria  for advice before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Nigeria is ethnically and religiously diverse. Avoid behaving or dressing in ways that might offend local expectations or religious sensitivities, especially outside of urban areas.  Respect religious and cultural customs and laws. 

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Nigeria, especially in northern Nigeria. 

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day ( see 'Sharia Law') . If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You'll need a valid visa to travel or reside in Nigeria. You can apply and pay for a visa online on the Nigeria Immigration Service  website. To complete the process, you'll need to provide your passport by mail or in person to the appropriate Nigerian diplomatic mission in your country.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  nearest embassy or consulate  for details about visas, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

Expect enhanced screening measures at airports.  Check the  Nigerian International Travel Portal  for the most up to date entry requirements.

• Nigeria Immigration Service  

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Nigeria. Some airlines may require sighting your vaccination certificate prior to boarding your flight to Nigeria.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Nigeria Naira (NGN). 

Nigeria is still largely a cash based economy.

You must declare amounts of currencies, negotiable instruments, or precious stones/metals in excess of US$10,000 or its equivalent brought into or out of Nigeria.

Facilities for changing traveller's cheques and Australian dollars are very limited.

US dollars, British Pounds and Euros are easily exchangeable in Nigeria, and usually accepted at:

• major hotels
• foreign exchange services.

ATMs are widely available in major cities only. However, it’s hard to use non-Nigerian debit and credit cards outside of major hotels. Most transactions need to be conducted using local cards, bank transfers or cash.

Fraud is a risk when using debit and credit cards

Local travel

Travel services in Nigeria are not reliable. Not all travel providers accept credit or debit cards. You should reconsider your need to travel and have back-up options.  

Land borders

Avoid travelling over land borders to Nigeria. Nigeria's land borders may open and close at short notice. C heck if the specific border you propose to travel through is open at the time of travel.  Most destinations bordering Nigeria also have a high travel advice level. If despite our advice you travel overland, read the travel advice of the destination you're entering or exiting.

Driving permit

International Driving Permits aren't recognised in Nigeria.

You must have a local driver's licence.

Road travel

Driving in Nigeria is dangerous due to:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• poor local driving habits
• unpredictable pedestrians
• poor signage
• lack of working traffic lights
• poor road lighting

Be alert to security threats, particularly in traffic jams and at traffic lights. Keep your doors locked and windows up at all times.

Avoid travel by domestic road transport between urban centres due to the high incidence of attacks on motorists by criminal gangs, bandits and terrorists. These may stop travellers with nails and branches on the road, fake breakdowns and injured people. If despite our advice, you decide to travel via domestic road transport, you should engage professional security for support and planning. Travelling in an armoured motor vehicle is the safest domestic road transport option.

Expect delays when you travel. This can include:

• authorised and unauthorised police and military roadblocks
• checkpoints
• traffic diversions
• parking restrictions

These will often happen in major cities and after dark.

If you can't produce your identity documents, car registration or ownership papers, police may fine you or ask for a bribe.

If you're in a traffic accident, nearby crowds may gather quickly. They may also overreact if they think you're at fault or use this as an opportunity to assault you or steal from you.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Motorbikes are banned in some cities – for example in Lagos. Check with your travel insurer if your policy covers you to ride a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and public transport

We recommend using car hire services organised through a major hotel. Do not use local taxis and ride-sharing services due to poor safety standards and risk of petty crime. Don't use public transport including bus and rail services, to travel both within or between cities. 

Public transport is often unsafe, due to:

• unqualified and uninsured drivers
• poor vehicle maintenance
• high speed driving
• overcrowding
• being targeted by criminal gangs, bandits and terrorists

Travelling in an armoured motor vehicle is the safest option.

At sea or on ships in port, you may encounter:

• armed robbery

Do not travel in the Gulf of Guinea or coastal areas around the Niger Delta. Criminals with speedboats and high-calibre weapons commonly target pleasure crafts, cruise liners, oil tankers, container ships and other large vessels in these areas.

The Nigerian Navy has limited capacity to respond to piracy. The International Maritime Bureau issues  piracy reports .

Domestic and international flights are often overbooked, delayed or cancelled with little notice.

Safety and reliability of some domestic airlines is a concern. Airlines may not have strict maintenance procedures and safety standards. If you travel on these airlines, insurance may not cover you.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Nigeria's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

National emergency numbers, 119 and 112, can be unreliable.

Ambulance service response times are unreliable and may not be available outside of major cities.

Police can be slow to respond to reports of criminal activity. Sometimes they may not investigate your report. Sometimes they don't respond at all.

Always try to get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia has a High Commission in Abuja. However, it may be limited in terms of the consular and passport services it can provide.

Australia has a consulate in Lagos. It provides limited consular assistance and doesn’t issue Australian passports.

Australian High Commission, Abuja

Phone: +234 (0) 9460 6960 Email:  [email protected] Website:  nigeria.highcommission.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Nigeria X:  @AusHCAbuja

Check the High Commission website for details about services, opening hours, appointments and any temporary closures.

Australian Honorary Consulate, Lagos

8th Floor, Union Marble House 1 Alfred Rewane Road (formerly Kingsway), Falomo Ikoyi Lagos, Nigeria Phone: (+234 0) 803 300 7291 Email:  [email protected]

Australia has an Honorary Consulate in Lagos which provides limited consular assistance, contact the High Commission in Abuja for consular enquires first. 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Nigeria?

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• Our Ministers

Please be advised that the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Travel Advice is now available at Ireland.ie/travel. Travel Advice on this webpage is no longer being updated. To ensure you receive the latest Travel Advice for Nigeria , please see Ireland.ie .

If you’re travelling to Nigeria, our travel advice and updates give you practical tips and useful information. 

Security Status

• Normal precautions
• High degree of caution
• Avoid non-essential travel
• Do not travel

Safety and Security

Local laws and customs, additional information, embassy contact, security status.

Avoid Non-Essential Travel

Latest Travel Alert

Elections are scheduled to take place in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa states on November 11th. There is an increased risk of protests and unrest both during the period leading up-to and following the elections. Irish citizens are advised to be vigilant and keep up to date with local developments and avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings. If you become aware of any nearby protests, leave the area immediately and monitor local media for up-to-date information.

General Travel Advice

We advise against all travel to the following areas :

• Adamawa state
• Bauchi state
• Borno state
• Gombe state
• The coastal and river areas of the Niger Delta states (Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River and Rivers states).
• Kaduna state
• Katsina state
• Niger state
• Zamfara state

We advise against all but essential travel to the following areas :

• Bayelsa state
• Delta state
• Kebbi state
• Jigawa state
• Plateau state
• Nasarawa state
• Rivers state
• Sokoto state

Security Advice:

All citizens present in Nigeria are encouraged to  register their presence  with the Embassy.

The security situation remains uncertain in many parts of Nigeria and there is a high threat of domestic terrorism. Be aware that there is an ongoing threat from the Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgencies, which has caused substantial loss of life over the last decade.

Rallies, protests, demonstrations, and riots are common and may occur at any time. The security forces may use tear gas and/or live ammunition for crowd control. Keep up to date with local and international events and avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings. If you become aware of any nearby protests, leave the area immediately and monitor local media for up-to-date information.

There is a high risk of kidnapping throughout Nigeria. We advise to take security precautions along the lines mentioned further below. In addition, when arranging appointments in Nigeria, ensure that the attendees are known to you and that the meeting is held in a secure location. Many kidnappings in Nigeria are commercial in nature, are often opportunistic, and can happen in any part of the country. There have been recent terrorist kidnappings, and while these have occurred mainly in northern Nigeria previously, they could now also occur elsewhere. Terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP are likely to carry out kidnappings, and several foreign nationals and humanitarian workers have been targeted previously. Banditry and outbreaks of inter-communal violence have occurred frequently throughout Nigeria, and particularly in the North West in recent years.

The Middle Belt states often experience outbreaks of localised violence, linked to civil unrest, farmer-herder disputes and elections, and such outbreaks can occur at short notice. Such occurrences can often be quickly followed by localised curfews imposed by the authorities. You are advised to avoid large crowds, political rallies, demonstrations and any large public protests or gatherings.

In the event that you encounter difficulties in the areas where the Department advises against all or all but essential travel to, the assistance that the Department of Foreign Affairs  or our Embassy in Abuja may be able to provide, is likely to be extremely limited. Before considering travel to these areas, we advise you to take professional security advice.

For all other areas, we advise you to take additional security precautions. These might include:

• having the name and phone number of the driver collecting you at the airport;
• being wary of any last-minute driver changes;
• planning in advance how you are getting to and back from each meeting;
• considering a security escort if travelling in rural areas or at night-time;
• varying your routines;
• keeping others informed of your travel plans;
• following the security advice of your employer;
• staying only in secure accommodation;
• reviewing your security measures regularly.

Travellers to Nigeria should bear these factors in mind and pay careful attention to local news prior to and during travel to/in Nigeria. Visit the ‘Safety and Security’ tab for more information.

Irish citizens require a visa to enter Nigeria. 

A valid passport is required for travel to Nigeria. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Passport cards cannot be used.

For more information on visas and passports, please see the Additional Information tab.

Visitors to Nigeria are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what's going on by monitoring local news and social media.

Citizens can also follow the Embassy on social media ( Twitter and Facebook )to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.

Emergency Assistance

The best help is often close at hand so if visitors have problems, try talking to local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.

Visitors can contact the emergency services in Nigeria by dialling 199.

Our tips for Safe Travels:

• Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all your planned activities.
• Register  your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there’s an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
• Follow us on twitter  @dfatravelwise  for the latest travel updates.
• Read our  ‘Know Before You Go’  guide.

Safety and security

The risk of domestic terrorism, including suicide bomb attacks, is high. A number of groups operate in Nigeria, including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram. These groups have been responsible for a high number of attacks, including suicide bomb attacks at markets, motor parks (public transport depots), schools and religious institutions. These occurred mainly in north-eastern Nigeria but there were several high profile attacks in Abuja between 2011 and 2015, and a higher threat level within Abuja FCT in 2022.

Attacks can be indiscriminate and could strike a variety of targets including; government, security, and educational institutions; international organisations; and public venues and areas, such as restaurants, bars, markets, hotels, shopping centres, places of worship and other areas frequented by expatriates, foreign tourists and business travellers. Travellers to Nigeria should take precautions, pay careful attention to local news and be prepared to change their travel plans at short notice.

Due to the threat of domestic terrorism, under no circumstances should you travel to the north-eastern states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe, and their neighbouring states of Bauchi and Gombe.  There is an on-going insurgency in north-eastern Nigeria which has the potential to spill-over into surrounding states. Moreover, borders between Nigeria and Cameroon, Chad and Niger are extremely porous, which facilitates the movement of criminal gangs, drug traffickers and radical groups.

If you have essential business in the northern or Middle Belt states of Nigeria we advise you to contact the Embassy of Ireland in Abuja well in advance of your trip

Violent crime, including muggings, kidnappings, car-jackings and armed robberies are prevalent throughout Nigeria and Irish citizens travelling in Nigeria are strongly advised to take precautions, including refraining from conspicuous displays of wealth. You should also take care after dark within cities, avoiding secondary roads and areas where other traffic is light. Travel at night in the outskirts of cities and towns should also be avoided. You are advised to be particularly vigilant when sitting in traffic jams or at traffic lights at night. Keep your car windows and doors locked and valuables out of sight.

There is a significant risk to western travellers in Nigeria from kidnappers, particularly to those working in the oil and gas sectors. Kidnapping in Nigeria is carried out both by criminal gangs for financial reasons and also by terrorist groups.

Western travellers in Nigeria are advised to take particular precautions to avoid kidnapping including:

• Avoid travelling at night, particularly inter-city
• Avoid travelling alone
• When driving, ensure all car doors are locked
• Vary routes and departure times – avoid patterns which could be tracked
• Pay careful attention to local media for reports of kidnapping activities
• Have the name and phone number of the person collecting you from the Airport

Irish nationals should be aware of the risks presented by social media, email and text message scammers. A range of scams are used to encourage victims to part with money which usually involve building trust with victims over a period of time before announcing an emergency which requires funds urgently. There are many different scams and they almost always involve a relationship formed across social media. In some cases, Irish citizens have been told that funds are urgently needed, such as a child requiring emergency hospital treatment or the online girlfriend or boyfriend needs funds to pay their university fees or a friend in Nigeria has been arrested and money must be urgently transferred to the police. Be very wary of online relationships including those formed via Christian dating websites. Do not transfer funds or give personal information to anyone that you have only ever met online. Further useful information on Advance Fee Fraud in West Africa is available from the  website of the Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission . For security as well as commercial reasons, business people travelling to Nigeria to be hosted by a new local partner should check the background of the partner before finalising their arrangements.

Maritime Security

There have been armed robberies and kidnapping attacks against ships that anchor in Nigerian waters, as well as in rivers and ports in the Niger Delta. We advise mariners and sailors to take appropriate caution whilst in these areas and to ensure that their employer has a contingency plan for such an occurrence.

Local Travel

The majority of roads in Nigeria are in poor condition with many unpaved, unmarked and without street lighting. Inter-city roads in particular tend to be poorly maintained. Local drivers can behave more erratically than in Ireland and accordingly a high degree of caution when travelling by road in Nigeria is advised.

There are high numbers of authorised and unauthorised vehicle checkpoints throughout Nigeria. Some are for security checks, others to extort small payments of money. You should slow down at any type of checkpoint and use common sense at all times. The number of these checkpoints increases at night.

Public transport is dangerous and we advise against its use. Taxis and long distance buses are poorly maintained and travellers who use them expose themselves to the risk of theft or attack from drivers and other passengers. Travellers should in particular ensure that they have pre-arranged travel from their destination airport before travelling to Nigeria and should avoid using public transport from an airport. Make sure that you have the name and phone number of the person collecting you from the Airport.

Ocean currents are very strong along the coast, and many swimming accidents are caused by rip tides.

Travellers should note that there are concerns about the safety and reliability of some airline companies operating domestic flights within Nigeria. Irish citizens should carefully evaluate the implications for their security and safety before deciding to undertake domestic air travel. Also, domestic flights are frequently cancelled at short notice and travellers should consider direct international flights in to Nigeria rather than transiting domestically. There are often lengthy flight delays, particularly flights later in the day.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Nigeria is a federal republic divided into 36 states and a Federal Capital Territory. The Federal Government exercises jurisdiction throughout the country on certain issues while State Governments exercises jurisdiction on other issues. The Nigerian Police Force is a federal, national police force. In recent years, some southern states have set up official law enforcement bodies but they are not officially recognised by the Federal Government.

Conditions in Nigerian prisons and detention facilities fall below the standards that would be observed in Ireland and can be extremely unpleasant.

The public display of a same sex relationship is illegal under federal law. Prosecutions can result in custodial sentences of up to 14 years imprisonment. 

Drug related offences in Nigeria can attract heavy prison sentences.

Taking photographs of government buildings is illegal and can lead to detention.

It is illegal to export African artefacts and antiques from Nigeria without written authorisation from the Department of Antiquities.

Nigeria formally retains the death penalty for a number of offences.

A number of northern Nigerian states which are predominantly Muslim have adopted Sharia Law. These are: Zamfara, Sokoto, Kano, Niger, Katsina, Bauchi, Borno, Jigawa, Kebbi and Yobe. Sharia Law is an Islamic body of law and moral code. Penalties for Muslims convicted under Sharia Law in northern Nigeria can be very severe, particularly for offences such as theft and adultery. Where travellers have essential business in these states, they should dress conservatively and women are advised to cover their legs, head and arms. Nigeria is a deeply religious society and travellers to all parts of Nigeria should respect local religious traditions and avoid offending local sensitivities.

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, before travelling to Nigeria. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. Travellers should note that the Irish Government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.

In most parts of Nigeria, medical facilities are very basic and even in major population centres the level of available medical care is quite limited, and payment must usually be made up-front. Accordingly, medical evacuation to Europe or South Africa is frequently required for anything more than a minor accident or illness.

We advise travellers to Nigeria to consult a GP and take medical advice before travelling. Medical practitioners advise travellers to receive a large number of vaccinations which would not normally be required in Ireland. A  Yellow Fever  vaccination and a valid WHO approved Yellow Vaccination Book are required for entry to Nigeria – travellers who are unable to provide evidence of Yellow Fever vaccination are liable to deportation by the Nigerian Immigration Service.

Malaria is a major public health problem in Nigeria, and can be fatal without medical attention. You should consult your GP about malaria prophylaxis prior to travel. The use of anti-insect spray/cream and/or insecticide treated mosquito nets can also reduce the risk of contracting malaria.

HIV/AIDS is prevalent and travellers should exercise appropriate precautions.

Polio is no longer endemic in Nigeria, but is not yet considered eradicated. There are regular outbreaks of cholera, measles, lassa fever, and meningitis throughout the country.

Nigeria experiences heavy rainfall during the rainy season (June - September), during which time there is an increased risk of water-borne diseases like cholera, and flash flooding can occur. You are advised to maintain a supply of clean bottled water at all times and to avoid purchasing sachets of water on the street.

There is currently no known outbreak of Zika Virus (a dengue-like mosquito-borne disease) in Nigeria. However, there have been cases in the recent past and it is present in the wider region. For this reason Irish Citizens, especially those with a weakened immune system or women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the  Health Protection Surveillance Centre  (HPSC).

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport).

Irish citizens require a visa to enter Nigeria. Visa  application form can be found here .

Passports should be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry into Nigeria and have at least two blank pages. 

Nigeria is a largely cash based economy. There is limited acceptance of credit cards and debit cards in major cities and rare acceptance in the rest of the country. The security of ATMs in Nigeria cannot be guaranteed.

You will be unable to obtain the local currency (Nigerian naira) until you have arrived in Nigeria. The largest denomination is the 1,000 naira note (about €2.50). Notes have been widely circulated and are often in very poor condition. You are advised to make regular use of hand sanitisers when handling cash to avoid illness.

Travellers should bring sufficient cash to cover expenses while in Nigeria. There are restrictions on the quantity of cash that can be brought into the country, and travellers should verify the latest requirements with their local Nigerian Embassy/Consulate/High Commission before travelling. Your airline will normally give you a customs declaration form and an immigration arrival form before you land. US dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currency but Euros can also be exchanged locally.

  Natural disasters and climate

Nigeria's climate is tropical, varying from the humid beaches in the south to the hot desert in the north. Temperatures can vary from 21°C to 44°C. Elevated areas of the country such as the Jos plateau are cooler and wetter. Given the high temperatures, travellers in Nigeria frequently become dehydrated and we advise that travellers maintain a supply of drinking water.

Embassy contact

Irish citizens who require urgent assistance while the Embassy is closed can contact the Duty Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs on +353 1 408 2000. The Duty Officer will refer the matter to the Embassy.

Embassy of Ireland 11 Negro Crescent Maitama District Abuja Nigeria

Tel: +234 9 4621080 Fax: +234 9 4131805

Monday to Thursday 09:00-16:00; Friday 09:00-12:00

Honorary Consulate Contact

Mr. Cornelius Guilfoyle Honorary Consul of Ireland 22A Lugard Avenue Ikoyi Lagos Nigeria

Tel: +234 7062107778/+234 7053800255

Email: Email us

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department  strongly recommends  that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Contacting us

Contact our Embassy in Abuja for assistance

Related links

Know Before You Go

Assistance abroad

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Nigeria Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Nigeria. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Diphtheria in Nigeria February 16, 2024 There is an outbreak of diphtheria in several states in Nigeria. Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against disease. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines.
• Global Polio January 05, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
• Yellow Fever in Nigeria May 04, 2022 There is an outbreak of yellow fever in Nigeria. Travelers to Nigeria should take steps to prevent yellow fever by getting vaccinated at least 10 days before travel and taking steps to prevent mosquito bites.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is  widespread  in Nigeria. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Nigeria.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Nigeria.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Nigeria take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Nigeria.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Nigeria  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Nigeria poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Nigeria are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Nigeria who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Nigeria. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Nigeria, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Nigeria. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.  

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Avoid animals

• Scratched or bitten by an infected animal such as a rodent or primate
• Touching an infected animal or touching animal products, including skins and meat
• Being near an infected person who is coughing or sneezing
• Touching the body fluids or rash of a person with monkeypox
• Avoid animals and animal products
• Avoid people who are sick

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Lassa Fever

• Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats
• Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids

Lassa fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Nigeria, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Nigeria. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Nigeria include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in Nigeria. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Nigeria’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Nigeria. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Nigeria may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Nigeria, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Nigeria for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Travel Advisory September 20, 2023

Nigeria - level 3: reconsider travel.

Updated with return to full operational status, removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links, and updates to Do Not Travel Areas.

Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to  crime ,  terrorism ,  civil unrest ,  kidnapping , and  armed gangs .   Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to :

• Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states due to  terrorism  and  kidnapping
• Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to  kidnapping
• Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to  crime ,  kidnapping , and  armed gangs.

Country Summary :  Violent crime – such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage taking, roadside banditry, and rape – is common throughout the country. Kidnappings for ransom occur frequently, often targeting dual national citizens who have returned to Nigeria for a visit, as well as U.S. citizens with perceived wealth. Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate roads.

Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting shopping centers, malls, markets, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, government installations, transportation hubs, and other places where crowds gather. Terrorists are known to work with local gangs to expand their reach.

There is civil unrest and armed gangs in parts of Southern Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta and Southeast regions. Armed criminality and gangs, including kidnapping and assaults on Nigerian security services is also pervasive in this region.

Violence can flare up between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Nigeria due to security conditions.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Nigeria.

  If you decide to travel to Nigeria:

• Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Review travel routes and times to vary your predictability.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Establish a “proof of life” protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Nigeria.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread terrorist activity, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Terrorist groups based in the Northeast routinely target humanitarian camps, security forces, churches, schools, mosques, government installations, educational institutions, entertainment venues, and road travelers.

Approximately two million Nigerians have been displaced as a result of the violence in Northeast Nigeria.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread inter-communal violence and armed criminality, especially kidnapping and roadside banditry. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Crime is rampant throughout Southern Nigeria, and there is a heightened risk of kidnapping , violent civil unrest , and armed gangs .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Polio and Yellow Fever

No limit if declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy abuja.

1075 Diplomatic Drive Central District Area, Abuja Nigeria Telephone: +234 209 461 4328 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Lagos 2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria Telephone: +234 201 460 3400 (Monday through Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +234 201 460 3400 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A passport valid for six months, a visa, and proof of Polio and Yellow Fever vaccinations are required to enter Nigeria. You must obtain your Nigerian visa from a Nigerian embassy or consulate in advance of your travel.

What does "Visa on Arrival" mean in Nigeria?  Nigeria's "Visa on Arrival" requires pre-approval.  You must receive a Visa on Arrival approval document from a Nigerian embassy or consulate prior to travel to Nigeria. A Visa on Arrival is only available for the purpose of business travel, as defined by the Nigerian government. No Visa on Arrival is available for tourism. If you attempt to travel to Nigeria without a visa issued into your passport or a Visa on Arrival approval document from a Nigerian embassy or consulate, you will be refused entry. This information is subject to change. Please refer to the Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS) guidelines ( https://immigration.gov.ng/visa-on-arrival-process/ ) and utilize the forms available on their website.

Visit the  Embassy of Nigeria  website for the most current visa information.

The Nigerian Fire Arms Act (1990) provides that no person shall have in his possession or under his control any firearm or ammunition except such person that has a license from the President or from the Inspector General of Police. U.S. citizens found with firearms (declared or undeclared) will be arrested.   

You cannot legally depart Nigeria unless you can prove, by presenting your visa and entry stamp, that you entered Nigeria legally.  In addition, if you exceed your authorized period of stay (as determined by the duration of stay given by the entry officer), you will be required to pay a fine before being allowed to depart. The fine can be up to $4,000 USD depending on the length of overstay.

U.S.-Nigeria dual-national citizens are now required to have a valid Nigerian passport in order to depart the country. Dual-national citizens can be, and often are, denied boarding until they have obtained non-expired Nigerian passports.

A World Health Organization (WHO) yellow card is required for entry into the country. The Nigerian authorities require a  Yellow Fever  vaccination within the past ten years and that adults have a  Polio  booster after the original childhood vaccine series. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes a  country-specific list  of recommended vaccines to receive prior to arrival. See also the Health section below.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Nigeria. Nigerian authorities may deny entry to foreigners who are “undesirable for medical reasons” and may require HIV tests for foreigners intending to marry Nigerian citizens. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Nigeria  before travel.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is focused on unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Please see our most recent  Travel Advisory  for more details.

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Crime : Muggings, assaults, burglaries, car-jackings, rape, kidnappings, and extortion occur regularly. Law enforcement authorities usually respond slowly and often do not have the resources to provide investigative support to victims.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens beyond Abuja and Lagos and their immediate surrounding areas. U.S. government employees may be subject to travel constraints as security conditions warrant.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams :  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Nigeria. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:  

• Romance/online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Inheritance notices 
• Nigerian Letter or “419” Fraud

Victims of Crime :  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or Consulate General in Lagos for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112, and contact the Embassy at +(234)(9)461-4328 or Consulate General at +(234)(1) 460-3400. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Justice in Nigeria may be uneven. Many crimes go unsolved. Others may not be prosecuted to a successful conclusion for the victim.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. citizen victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on  victims’ compensation programs in the United States .
• Provide information on victims’ assistance programs in Nigeria:
• National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons ( NAPTIP )
• Women Trafficking and Child Labor Eradication Foundation ( WOTCLEF )
• Women at Risk International Foundation ( WARIF )
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. Even within major cities, the limited number of first responders and extreme traffic congestion can cause lengthy delays in response time. Emergency services comparable to those in the United States or Europe are non-existent, and the blood supply is unreliable and unsafe for transfusion. You should consider traveling to the United States, Europe, or South Africa for treatment for serious conditions.  U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Maritime Security : Piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Guinea continue to trend upwards. Pirates/armed groups operating in the region typically carry out attacks on vessels using automatic weapons. Attacks, kidnappings for ransom, and robbery of crew, passengers, and ship’s property continue to be common occurrences.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Possession, use, or sale of cannabis and related products is prohibited under Nigerian law.  U.S. citizens who violate the law may be subject to arrest and prosecution. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General immediately. In cases where detainees are dual citizens (holders of U.S. and Nigerian citizenship), the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General may not be promptly notified. See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers :  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers : Consensual, same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Nigeria. Entering same-sex marriage contracts and civil unions (defined to include “any arrangement between persons of the same sex to live together as sex partners”) is also criminalized, with punishments including fines and prison sentences of up to 14 years. Same-sex marriage contracts and civil unions entered into in a foreign country are not recognized under Nigerian law.

Public displays of affection between persons of the same sex are also punishable by up to ten years imprisonment. Furthermore, the law allows for the prosecution of persons who support or belong to advocacy groups relating to LGBTI issues, with prison sentences of up to ten years. U.S. citizens who participate in free speech or assemblies relating to same-sex marriage could potentially be prosecuted under this law.

In the following northern states, where Sharia law applies, penalties can also include death: Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page.

Travelers with Disabilities:   The law in Nigeria prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities; however, the law is very unevenly enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. 

Few government buildings, schools, banks, or grocery stores have accessible facilities, including in Abuja and Lagos. Some hospitals and clinics are equally inaccessible to people with disabilities and lack wheelchair ramps or lifts, including some of the hospitals travelers commonly use. Expect accessibility to be very limited in transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, and largely absent outside of major cities. 

Much of the disability equipment for sale locally is refurbished rather than new. Replacement parts can be found in local informal markets and are also generally refurbished parts. Imported higher-end equipment such as electric wheelchairs and lifting equipment can be purchased from a limited number of medical equipment suppliers in the major cities.

Students :  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers :  Rape is a crime in Nigeria. According to the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, rape is punishable by 12 years to life imprisonment for offenders older than 14 and a maximum of 14 years imprisonment for offenders younger than 14. Rape remains a rampant problem.

The VAPP Act, currently applicable only in the Federal Capital Territory, addresses sexual, physical, psychological, and socioeconomic violence, and harmful traditional practices. Federal law criminalizes female circumcision or genital mutilation (FGM/C). Twelve states have also banned FGM/C, though the practice remains common in parts of both Northern and Southern Nigeria.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Nigerian medical facilities are generally poorly equipped. Many medicines are unavailable, including medications for diabetes or asthma. Take care when purchasing medicines locally, as counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a common problem, and may be difficult to distinguish from genuine medications. Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.

Emergency services comparable to those in the United States or Europe are non-existent, and the blood supply is unreliable and unsafe for transfusion. For serious medical problems, you should consider traveling to the United States, Europe, or South Africa for treatment.

For emergency services in Nigeria, dial 112.

Ambulance services are: 

• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment. 
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. 
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. 

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Federal Ministry of Health  in Nigeria to ensure the medication is legal in Nigeria.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further Health Information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• https://healthapp.ncdc.gov.ng/guidelines-and-protocols/
• https://healthapp.ncdc.gov.ng/health-declaration-page/

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health Facilities in General :

• Adequate health facilities are available in major cities, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff are available overnight (in non-emergency wards). Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, and approaches to treatment and services might be significantly different than the United States.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery :

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry worldwide. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling. 
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Nigeria.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Nigeria.  

Pharmaceuticals :

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.  

Non-Traditional Medicine :

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died while seeking medical care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners.  We recommend that you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy :

• If you are considering traveling to Nigeria to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Although surrogacy agencies/clinics claim surrogacy is legal in Nigeria, there is no legal framework for foreigners to pursue surrogacy in Nigeria. As a result, surrogacy agreements between foreign intending parents and gestational mothers vary widely and are not enforced by Nigerian courts.
• Even though you may have a surrogacy contract, it is not clear if the contract will stand in court as a custody agreement. Therefore, parents should consider obtaining a custody order in Nigeria to be certain their parental rights are recognized.
• Surrogacy for same-sex couples is illegal in Nigeria.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Nigeria via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Water Quality :

• Tap water is unsafe.  Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.  Be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested, and  may use tap water to make ice for drinks.

Adventure Travel :

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health :

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Diarrheal illness
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Lassa Fever
• Meningococcal meningitis
• Schistosomiasis
• Trypanosomiasis
• Tuberculosis
• Yellow fever
• The U.S. Centers for Disease Control lists Nigeria as “critically high risk” for Malaria. Malaria is especially fatal in Nigeria and accounts for a high burden of disease and death in travelers.
• All travelers should take chemoprophylaxis, even for short stays, and even if they are African by descent.  
• Avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn and wear clothing over exposed skin whenever possible. Sleep with windows closed and under air conditioning.
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Nigeria.

Air Quality :

• Reliable air quality data for Nigeria is limited. However, satellite data suggests that on average it is significantly worse than in the United States. Poor waste management practices and commercial pollution exacerbate seasonal weather variations that affect air quality. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
• Infants, children, and teens.
• People over 65 years of age.
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. 
• People with heart disease or diabetes. 
• People who work or are active outdoors. 
• Travelers with allergies and/or respiratory disease may experience illness and are encouraged to bring ample supply of prescription medications.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Roads are generally in poor condition, causing damage to vehicles and contributing to hazardous traffic conditions. There are few working traffic lights or stop signs, and few traffic officers to manage traffic during power outages. The rainy season, generally from May to October, is especially dangerous because of flooded roads and water-concealed potholes.

All drivers and passengers should wear seat belts, lock doors, and keep windows closed. You should have appropriate automobile insurance.  Drivers and passengers of vehicles involved in accidents resulting in injury or death have experienced extra-judicial actions, i.e., mob attacks, official consequences such as fines and incarceration, and/or confrontations with the victim's family.

Driving between 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. should be done with extreme caution.  Automobiles, trucks, or “okadas” (motorbikes) often drive on the wrong side of the road or on sidewalks.

Traffic Laws : Motor vehicle accidents can be reported by dialing “119.” Traffic control officers may occasionally seek bribes when citing drivers for traffic violations. If stopped by traffic police, drivers should stop as instructed. However, drivers should also keep their doors locked and only roll their windows down an inch for sound. Do not pay any bribes.If requested to drive an officer to the police station, do not do so, especially at night, as some traffic police are imposters.

Public Transportation :  We recommend avoiding public transportation throughout Nigeria. Public transportation vehicles, such as buses and motorbikes, are unsafe due to poor maintenance, high speeds, and overcrowding. Motorbikes are banned within Abuja's city limits and many major thoroughfares in Lagos. “Okada” drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets in several cities; police can fine violators on the spot.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information, and visit Nigeria’s  Federal Road Safety Corps  website.

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Nigeria’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel : Mariners planning travel to Nigeria or through the Gulf of Guinea should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  ICC  and  NGA  broadcast warnings.

The Commandant of the Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Nigeria ports and has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports having visited ports in Nigeria. Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of Nigeria should exercise increased caution.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Nigeria . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

North East Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Bauchi State
• Taraba State

North West Nigeria

• Kaduna State
• Katsina State
• Zamfara State
• Jigawa State
• Sokoto State
• within 20km of the border with Niger in Kebbi State

North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja

• Niger State
• Plateau State

South East and South South Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas (the river and swamp locations accessible by boat, but not by road) of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.

• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers and Akwa Ibom states
• Anambra State

Nigeria-Niger border   

The Nigeria-Niger land border has been closed by the Nigerian authorities in response to the political situation in Niger. If you’re planning to travel by land across this border, check with the local authorities for the latest information before travelling.

See Niger travel advice before travelling by land across this border.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel . 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Embassy of Ireland, Nigeria

Please be advised that the Embassy of Ireland, Nigeria website has moved and this page is no longer being updated. The Embassy website is now available at  Ireland.ie/abuja .

Ireland in Nigeria

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Irish passports can be applied for from anywhere in the world using Passport Online.

This secure and convenient service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

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Contact Embassy of Ireland, Nigeria

Address & opening hours.

Embassy of Ireland

11 Negro Crescent Maitama District Abuja Nigeria

Tel:  +234 9 4621080

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Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai

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Supporting organisations in developing countries by matching them with skilled Australians. 

Sports diplomacy

Australia is a successful global leader and innovator in sport.

A global platform for achievement, innovation, collaboration, and cooperation

About Australia

Australia is a stable, democratic and culturally diverse nation with a highly skilled workforce and one of the strongest performing economies in the world.

Australia in Brief publication

This is the 52nd edition of Australia in Brief, revised and updated in February 2021

Travel advice

To help Australians avoid difficulties overseas, we maintain travel advisories for more than 170 destinations.

• Smartraveller – travel advice

International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate

Prove your COVID-19 vaccinations when you travel overseas.

• Services Australia

The Australian Passport Office and its agents are committed to providing a secure, efficient and responsive passport service for Australia.

• Australian Passport Office

24-hour consular emergency helpline

• Within Australia: 1300 555 135
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• Getting help overseas
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Publications

Country information reports.

Country Information Reports are prepared by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for protection status determination purposes only. They provide DFAT's best judgment and assessment at time of writing and are distinct from Australian Government policy with respect to the countries in question. DFAT reports are a snapshot in time and situations in countries can change rapidly – for example, in Afghanistan and Myanmar.

The reports provide a general, rather than an exhaustive country overview. They are prepared with regard to the current caseload for decision makers in Australia without reference to individual applications for protection visas. Reports do not contain policy guidance for decision makers. Decision makers have access to a wide range of current country of origin information, in addition to DFAT Country Information Reports.

Ministerial Direction Number 84 of 24 June 2019, issued under s 499 of the Migration Act 1958, states that:

Where the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has prepared [a] country information assessment expressly for protection status determination purposes, and that assessment is available to the decision maker, the decision maker must take into account that assessment, where relevant, in making their decision. The decision maker is not precluded from considering other relevant information about the country.

Reports take into account relevant and credible open source reports, as well as information obtained on the ground.

Country information reports

• Afghanistan [PDF 1.5 MB]  | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 14 January 2022)
• Bangladesh [PDF 2 MB]  | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 30 November 2022)
• China [PDF 1.5 MB]  | [DOCX 835 KB] (updated 22 December 2021)
• Egypt [PDF 1.3 MB] (updated 17 June 2019)
• Ethiopia [PDF 2.4 MB] | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 12 August 2020)
• Eritrea [PDF 1.2 MB] (updated 8 February 2017)
• Fiji [PDF 900 KB]  | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 20 May 2022)
• India [PDF 1.7 MB] | [DOCX 900 KB] (updated 29 September 2023)
• Indonesia [PDF 8.32 KB]  | [DOCX  819 KB] (updated 24 July 2023)
• Iran [PDF 2.5 MB]  | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 24 July 2023)
• Iraq [PDF 1.6 MB] | [DOCX 1.2 MB] (updated 16 January 2023)
• Lebanon [PDF 1 MB] | [DOCX 640 KB] (updated 20 June 2023)
• Libya [PDF 640 KB] (updated 14 December 2018)
• Malaysia [PDF 1.1 MB]  | [DOCX 1.2 MB] (updated 29 June 2021)
• Myanmar [PDF 2 MB] | [DOCX 1 MB]  version 3 ( 11 November 2022 )
• Nepal [PDF 1.3 MB] | [DOCX 846 KB]  (updated 1 March 2024)
• Nigeria [PDF 3.7 MB] | [DOCX 1.2 MB] (updated 3 December 2020)
• Pakistan [PDF 1.6 MB]  | [DOCX 1.1 MB] (updated 25 January 2022)
• Papua New Guinea [PDF 1.6 MB]  | [DOCX 1 MB]  (updated 6  September 2022)
• Philippines [PDF 2 MB]  | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 23 August 2021)
• Sri Lanka [PDF 2 MB]  | [DOCX 1.5 MB] (updated 23 December 2021)
• Thailand [PDF 2.4 MB] | [DOCX 1.7 MB]  (published 18 December 2023)
• Türkiye [PDF 2 MB] | [DOCX 1.8 MB]  (updated 10 September 2020)
• Vietnam [PDF 2 MB]  | [DOCX 1 MB] (updated 11 January 2022)
• West African States (ECOWAS) [PDF 2.9 MB] | [ DOCX 985 KB] (updated 3 December 2020)
• Zimbabwe [PDF 2 MB] (updated 19 December 2019)

Older reports are available on request.

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