Security and orientation briefing: in Nigeria

In ancient and pre-colonial times, the area of present-day Nigeria was occupied by a variety of ethnic groups with different languages and traditions. These included large Islamic kingdoms such as Borno, Kano, and the Sokoto Caliphate dominating the north, the Benin and Oyo Empires that controlled much of modern western Nigeria, and more decentralized political entities and city states in the south and southeast. In 1914, the British amalgamated their separately administered northern and southern territories into a Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria.

Nigeria achieved independence from Britain in 1960 and transitioned to a federal republic with three constituent states in 1963 under President Nnamdi AZIKIWE. This structure served to enflame regional and ethnic tension, contributing to a bloody coup led by predominately southeastern military officers in 1966 and a countercoup later that year masterminded by northern officers. In the aftermath of this tension, the governor of Nigeria’s Eastern Region, centered on the southeast, declared the region independent as the Republic of Biafra. The ensuring civil war (1967-1970), resulted in more than a million deaths, many from starvation. While the war forged a stronger Nigerian state and national identity, it contributed to long-lasting mistrust of the southeast’s predominantly Igbo population. Wartime military leader Yakubu GOWON ruled until a bloodless coup by frustrated junior officers in 1975. This generation of officers, including Olusegun OBASANJO, Ibrahim BABANGIDA, and Muhammadu BUHARI, who would all later serve as president, continue to exert significant influence in Nigeria to the present day.

Military rule predominated until the first durable transition to civilian government and adoption of a new constitution in 1999. The elections of 2007 marked the first civilian-to-civilian transfer of power in the country's history. National and state elections in 2011 and 2015 were generally regarded as credible. The 2015 election was also heralded for the fact that the then-umbrella opposition party, the All Progressives Congress, defeated the long-ruling (since 1999) People's Democratic Party and assumed the presidency, marking the first peaceful transfer of power from one party to another. Presidential and legislative elections in 2019 and 2023 were deemed broadly free and fair despite voting irregularities, intimidation, and violence. The government of Africa's most populous nation continues to face the daunting task of institutionalizing democracy and reforming a petroleum-based economy whose revenues have been squandered through decades of corruption and mismanagement. In addition, Nigeria faces increasing violence from Islamic terrorism, largely in the northeast, large scale criminal banditry, secessionist violence in the southeast, and competition over land and resources nationwide.

Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid from local authorities, local news outlets or your travel operator. Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds. If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.

Incidents of intercommunal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.

Widespread public demonstrations periodically take place across Nigeria including in major cities of Abuja and Lagos. Past protests have resulted in disruption, violence, and the security services have made use of tear gas, rubber bullets and live fire on occasion. Protests may occur with little notice. Exercise caution when travelling, limit travel after dark, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and monitor local media reporting, as well as UK Travel Advice.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

North East Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Yobe State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Bauchi State

North West Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Katsina State
• Zamfara State
• Sokoto State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Kaduna State
• Kano State
• Kebbi State
• Jigawa State

North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Niger State
• Kogi State
• Plateau State
• Taraba State
• Kwara State
• Benue 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.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Abia State
• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers States
• Anambra State
• Imo State

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. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

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.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Nigeria

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Nigeria.

The primary terrorist threat in Nigeria comes from Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) and Boko Haram. These groups are mainly based in north-east Nigeria in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. In recent years, there have also been attacks likely associated with terrorist groups in the following states: Borno, Gombe, Niger, Kaduna, Kogi, Bauchi, Ondo, Zamfara, Taraba, Jigawa, Sokoto, Edo and Kano states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur at any time, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• places of worship
• markets
• malls
• hotels
• bars and restaurants
• sports venues and screenings
• displacement camps
• train networks and stations
• government buildings
• educational institution
• international organisations
• large public gatherings
• military locations and venues within them

Take particular care during election periods, or periods of religious significance or other public holidays.

Terrorist groups have also constructed unauthorised vehicle checkpoints on major supply and commercial routes, such as the A3 Maiduguri-Damaturu Road.

A heavy security presence is often a sign of a particularly high risk. Avoid affected areas in the immediate aftermath of an attack. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent significant attacks include:

• in 2025, 5 people were killed and 35 injured, in an IED attack on Maiduguri Mosque in Borno state

• in 2025, one soldier was killed in an attack in Kwara state. This was the first time that al-Qa’eda affiliated group JNIM have claimed an attack in Nigeria

• in 2025, 63 people were killed in a firearms attack in Darajamal, Borno state. Boko Haram are believed to have been responsible

• in 2025, 16 people were killed in a firearms attack in Morai, Kebbi state

• in 2024, at least 37 people were killed in an attack on Mafa town, Yobe state. ISWA claimed responsibility for the attack

• in 2024, 30 people were killed in coordinated suicide bombings in Gwoza, Borno state

Terrorist kidnap

Terrorist groups are highly likely to carry out kidnaps in Nigeria. Kidnappings are widespread and could occur anywhere. Foreign nationals and humanitarian workers have been kidnapped in the North, including in the states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Katsina, Kano and Kebbi. There may be an increased risk of terrorist kidnap, particularly to NGO workers, in Borno State.  

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

When arranging meetings, use a secure location. Avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours.

Political situation

Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid from local authorities, local news outlets or your travel operator. Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds. If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.

Incidents of intercommunal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.

Widespread public demonstrations periodically take place across Nigeria including in major cities of Abuja and Lagos. Past protests have resulted in disruption, violence, and the security services have made use of tear gas, rubber bullets and live fire on occasion. Protests may occur with little notice. Exercise caution when travelling, limit travel after dark, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and monitor local media reporting, as well as UK Travel Advice.

Curfews and communication blackouts

The authorities impose, amend and lift curfews and restrictions on the movement of vehicles at short notice throughout Nigeria.

If you fail to observe curfews and restrictions, you could be at significant risk of arrest and detention. Check with the local authorities or someone with local knowledge for up-to-date information.

Network operators in Nigeria have in the past been ordered to suspend mobile networks and wi-fi with very little notice.

Crime

Street and vehicle crime 

Levels of violent crime are high throughout Nigeria, including muggings, armed robbery, carjacking and kidnap. 

There are frequent reports of armed robbery, carjacking and kidnap on roads across Nigeria. Risks can be higher outside major urban areas and when travelling at night. 

The Nigerian authorities, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), have highlighted the risks associated with road travel at night. Travelling after dark can increase exposure to both security and road safety risks. 

Criminals may target foreign nationals, including British nationals, due to their perceived wealth. Follow the advice of your host, employer or local contacts and considerlimiting unnecessary road travel after dark. 

Limit the amount of cash you carry and keep valuable items such as watches and jewellery out of sight. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. 

If you are the victim of an armed robbery, comply with the attackers’ demands and do not resist. 

Withdrawing and exchanging money 

Criminals may target people withdrawing cash from banks and ATMs. Take extra care when withdrawing money, particularly after dark. 

Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your card within sight when making payments and regularly check your account for unauthorised transactions. 

Financial scams 

British nationals are frequently targeted by scammers operating in West Africa. Scams can take many forms, including romance and friendship scams, fraudulent business opportunities, investment schemes, inheritance claims and fake job offers. 

Be cautious if you receive unsolicited requests for money, investment opportunities or employment offers. Be wary of anyone you have only met online and avoid sending money or sharing personal or financial information with people you do not know. 

If you are asked to transfer money to Nigeria on behalf of someone claiming to be a friend or relative, contact them using a trusted method to confirm the request is genuine. 

If someone contacts you claiming to be a British national in distress in Nigeria and requesting financial assistance, verify their identity independently.

Scammers sometimes impersonate the British High Commission or other UK government organisations. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from the British High Commission in Nigeria, contact the High Commission directly using contact details published on GOV.UK or the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos. Please report any scams to Action Fraud. 

For more information on common scams and how to protect yourself, see GOV.UK guidance on avoiding and reporting internet scams and phishing

Surrogacy and fertility treatment

If you’re considering fertility treatment or surrogacy options in Nigeria, exercise caution. There have been reports of staged fake births, commonly referred to as ‘miracle babies’, where visitors are falsely led to believe that a birth has taken place.

Regulation of fertility treatment and surrogacy services in Nigeria is weak, and legal protections for intended parents and surrogates may be limited. There have also been reports of legal disputes involving international surrogacy arrangements in both Nigerian and English courts.

If you plan to bring a child born through fertility treatment or surrogacy in Nigeria to the UK, make sure you understand the relevant UK immigration and health requirements. See Guidance on surrogacy overseas.

Overseas Adoption

The UK has restricted overseas adoption of children from Nigeria. If you bring a child who is not biologically related to you into the UK without following the legal procedures, you could face prosecution and the child may not be eligible for British citizenship.

Kidnapping for ransom

There is a high threat of kidnapping across Nigeria. Kidnappings happen in both rural and urban areas, including on roads between towns and cities. British nationals could be targeted, including people travelling for work or visiting friends and relatives.  

The threat varies by location. Armed criminal groups carry out kidnappings in the north-west and north-central regions. There is also a high threat of kidnapping by terrorist groups in the north-east. However, kidnappings are not limited to these areas. Incidents also occur in southern Nigeria and the outer suburbs of Abuja.  

Read the regional risks advice for your destination and any areas you plan to travel through.  

Before travelling by road: 

• check current security conditions along your whole route 

• use trusted transport providers 

• plan journeys to arrive before dark 

• vary your routes and routines where possible 

• keep up to date with local security information and follow the advice of local authorities 

Do not assume that major roads are safe. Travelling during daylight does not remove the risk of kidnapping.  

In the Niger Delta, there is a risk of kidnapping and armed attacks, including people working at oil and gas facilities and offshore installations. If you are travelling for work, check that your employer has appropriate security arrangements and emergency plans.  

Kidnappers may target people they believe can pay a ransom, or whose relatives or employers can pay. Criminal groups may transfer hostages to terrorist organisations. Read the ‘Terrorist kidnap’ advice alongside this section.  

Vary your routines and arrange meetings in secure locations. Keep up to date with local security information and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Check FCDO’s travel advice before making arrangements and again before travelling. Security precautions do not make it safe to travel to areas where FCDO advises against travel.

Methanol poisoning

There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Nigeria.

Where incidents have been reported, Nigerian authorities have sought to shut down production centres, particularly for unlicensed traditional gin. Avoid drinking unlicensed products.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Laws and cultural differences

Using a mobile

Your SIM must be linked to a Nigerian Identification Number. Get guidance from your network operator.

Ramadan

Nigeria has the largest Muslim population in sub-Saharan Africa. You should behave and dress modestly, particularly in the north and when visiting religious sites.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year. During this time, in any predominantly Muslim area you should not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public areas (including in cars and taxis) during the daytime
• sit down to eat in hotels and restaurants without checking if there is a separate or screened area for food and drink
• ignore dress codes – it is more important to wear respectful clothing during Ramadan
• play loud music, swear, shout, sing or dance

Be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly at dusk when people are getting back home to eat.

Illegal drugs

Possession or use of illegal drugs, including cannabis, carries severe penalties in Nigeria. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting.

Nigeria has excellent  technology and security for detecting illegal items at the border. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Using cameras in secure areas

Photography of government, military buildings and airports may lead to arrest.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Nigeria with penalties of up to 14 years in prison. Some northern states observe Sharia Law which can prescribe the death penalty for same-sex sexual activity.  

The ‘Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act’ provides for lengthy prison sentences for anyone involved in same-sex marriages, including those who help arrange, carry out or even attend events perceived to be same-sex weddings. The Act also criminalises anyone who helps register, organise or participate in LGBT+ groups, organisations, or those who publicly promote same-sex relationships. 

Same-sex relationships are generally viewed as socially unacceptable in Nigerian society. There is an increased risk of violence, attacks and threats, such as blackmail and intimidation against anyone being thought to be part of the LGBT+ community or supporting their rights.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel in Nigeria can be dangerous due to poor road conditions, low driving standards and vehicles that are not roadworthy. Kidnapping, armed robbery and attacks on vehicles are also a risk. Read the regional risks advice for your destination and any areas you plan to travel through.  

If you plan to drive in Nigeria, read the information on driving abroad. Serious and fatal road collisions are common. Traffic congestion, particularly in Lagos, can cause long delays. Allow extra time for journeys and carry a charged mobile phone and bottled water.  

You can drive in Nigeria with a UK driving licence for up to 3 months. Make sure your licence is valid and renew or update it if necessary. The minimum legal driving age is 18.  

If you stay longer than 3 months, you will need a 1968 international driving permit (IDP). For stays of more than a year, you will need a Nigerian driver’s licence.  

Plan journeys outside city centres to arrive before dark and use well-lit busier roads where possible. Travelling in daylight does not remove the risk of kidnapping or armed robbery. Keep doors locked, windows closed and valuables out of sight. Stay alert in traffic jams and at traffic lights. If you think you are being followed, drive to a place of safety, such as a police station.  

Before travelling outside cities, get current local advice on road and security conditions along your whole route. Use a trusted transport provider and check that the vehicle is roadworthy. Do not assume that travelling on major roads or in a convoy will keep you safe. Follow local restrictions and the advice of the authorities. 

Dangers at road checkpoints 

There are authorised and unauthorised vehicle checkpoints throughout Nigeria. Some are used for security checks, while others are used to extort money from motorists. Slow down when approaching a checkpoint and stay calm.  

Unauthorised checkpoints can pose a risk of robbery, kidnapping and violence. The risk varies by location. Do not assume that checkpoints in Nigeria are safe. Terrorist groups have also established checkpoints on major routes, including the A3 Maiduguri–Damaturu road in the north-east.  

Read the regional risks advice for your destination and any areas you plan to travel through.

Taxis and buses 

There is a risk of robbery and kidnapping when using taxis and public transport in Nigeria. Vehicle maintenance, insurance and driver standards vary between operators.  

Where possible, arrange transport in advance through a reputable hotel or trusted transport provider rather than accepting unsolicited offers of a lift. App-based taxi services do not remove the risk of crime. Before getting in, check that the driver and vehicle registration match the booking. If they do not match, do not get in. Keep the booking in the app and share your journey details with someone you trust. For long-distance bus journeys, check security conditions along the whole route and plan to travel during daylight where possible.  

Arrange airport collections before you travel. Confirm your driver’s name, contact details and vehicle registration directly with the company or person arranging your transport. Criminals may pose as drivers or airport greeters. Do not rely only on someone knowing your name or displaying a name board. If the person or vehicle does not match the details provided, stay inside the terminal while you contact your transport provider. Airport pick-up arrangements for app-based services can vary, so check the current collection point with your provider. 

Sea travel 

Piracy, armed robbery and kidnapping for ransom remain threats in Nigerian waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea, including for people travelling to and from vessels. There is also a risk of armed attacks and kidnapping on waterways in the Niger Delta.  

Before travelling by sea or river, get professional maritime security advice and check current threat information for your route. Vessel operators should follow the latest maritime security guidance.  

FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states. Riverine areas are river and swamp locations that can be reached by boat, but not by road. 

Swimming risks 

Swimming off the coast of Nigeria can be dangerous because of rip tides and undertows. Drownings occur each year. Get local advice before swimming.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

This section has safety advice for regions of Nigeria. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice. 

Insecurity is increasing across Nigeria. Kidnapping, violent crime, and intercommunal violence occur throughout all regions of Nigeria. You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

North East Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Yobe State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Bauchi state

There is a high and increasing threat from Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa, particularly around transport hubs, religious areas and large gatherings. Humanitarian personnel, vehicles, supplies and infrastructure can be targeted by terrorists and criminals.

There is a high threat of kidnap and violent attacks. Intercommunal tensions can lead to outbreaks of violence. During the dry season, between March and November, when roads are more easily accessible this risk is heightened. 

Regular military operations are ongoing in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. There is a risk of retaliatory attacks.

If you’re in the north-east against FCDO advice, keep in touch with the authorities and the wider community on the security situation. Make sure your safety procedures and contingency plans are up to date. If you are working, make sure you have confidence in your employer’s ability to extract you in the event of any emergency.

If in Maiduguri, be aware that if security were to deteriorate any further, it could be extremely difficult for you to leave the city. Be mindful of the risks of travelling by road in this area and take precautions.

North West Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Katsina State
• Zamfara State
• Sokoto State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Kaduna State
• Kano State
• Kebbi State
• Jigawa State
• Sokoto State

Banditry and violent attacks are frequent and there is a high threat of kidnap. Transport routes can be vulnerable to attacks by bandits and armed groups. If you’re travelling in the north-west against FCDO advice, be extremely cautious and monitor local media.

North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Niger State
• Kogi State
• Plateau State
• Taraba State
• Kwara State
• Benue State

This advice is due to criminal and militant activity and incidents of intercommunal violence.

The outer suburbs of Abuja, within the Federal Capital Territory are prone to varying levels of violence, and the safety of daily activity is unpredictable. Violent crime, often involving firearms, has increased and spread from the outer suburbs to more central, wealthier areas of the city.

See Terrorism

Be cautious when travelling in the Federal Capital Territory. Take advice from trusted contacts and be prepared to cancel or limit your plans. British Government staff in Nigeria have been advised to restrict travel to an area broadly within the Abuja metropolitan area.

The Nigerian government has warned against travelling at night in north-central Nigeria because of security concerns.

There are protests in Abuja from time to time, which can turn violent. Monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and follow instructions from local police and security forces.

Incidents of intercommunal violence and banditry frequently occur in Benue State, with a number of deaths reported. There may be increased security presence in parts of the state. 

There has also been an increase in violence in Kwara State, with a number of deaths reported. There may be an increased security presence in parts of the 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. 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• Abia State 

• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers states 

• Anambra State 

• Imo State 

There is a high risk of kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crime in the Niger Delta. Armed groups have attacked oil and gas infrastructure, and people working at or travelling to these facilities can be at risk. Threats also affect river journeys and travel to and from offshore installations. Security conditions vary by location. Check current conditions along your whole route and, if travelling for work, confirm that your employer has appropriate security arrangements and emergency plans.  

Armed attacks and targeted killings remain a risk in the south-east, including in towns and cities as well as on isolated roads. Police stations, checkpoints, patrols and other security facilities have been attacked, putting people nearby at risk. On 17 October 2026, an attack involving explosives on a police station in Aba, Abia State, killed two police officers. Avoid the area of an attack and follow local security instructions. Curfews and other movement restrictions may be introduced at short notice. Check current local requirements before travelling and avoid road journeys after dark.  

Violence linked to separatist activity and clashes with security forces remain risks in the south-east. Foreign nationals are not normally the intended targets of these clashes but could be caught in an attack. Improvised explosive devices have been used in the region, including in Imo State. Protests and attempts to enforce ‘sit-at-home’ restrictions can lead to violence and disrupt transport, businesses and access to services. Do not assume that reports of a new restriction or its cancellation are reliable. Check current local security information before travelling, avoid demonstrations and gatherings, and monitor official announcements and local reporting.

South West Nigeria including Lagos

Violent crimes such as mugging, kidnapping, car-jacking and armed robbery are common, particularly in the larger cities. Intercommunal violence is common and can flare up suddenly. Large-scale terrorist attacks are rare, but Islamic State West Africa claimed 2 attacks in 2022. While these attacks have not targeted foreign nationals, try to avoid being caught up in such incidents.

Be cautious when travelling in Lagos, particularly on the mainland, which attracts high levels of crime and where security levels can be unpredictable. Street crime is a significant risk across Lagos, particularly in crowded areas. Take sensible measures to guard your possessions and reduce your personal risk. Be cautious when moving around Lagos at night, risks can be particularly high when moving around the city by foot.

Be alert and take any security advice given by your hotel, employer or your hosts.

Emergency medical number

Call 112 to report an emergency.

There is no national ambulance service and hospital-owned services are extremely limited. You may need to get local advice or arrange local transport.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Nigeria
• see where to get vaccines and whether you must pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Nigeria including:

• yellow fever
• schistosomiasis
• Zika virus
• malaria and dengue

Ebola

On 20 October 2026, the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed its first imported case of Ebola in the Federal Capital Territory and are implementing public health measures in response, including contact tracing. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor updates from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.  

Before you travel to Nigeria, read general information on Ebola and similar diseases.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
• You have filled in the online Nigeria Health Declaration Form

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Medication

Pharmacies are widely available in Nigeria. They will accept prescriptions from the UK.

Most medicines that require a prescription from a doctor in the UK will require one in Nigeria. If you need a new prescription, a doctor in Nigeria can issue one for a fee. Take your existing packaging to show them exactly what you need.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Nigeria

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Nigeria. 

Medical standards differ from the UK and you will have to pay for any medical treatment at public hospitals. Private hospitals are more expensive. Local hospitals may be crowded and there can be shortages in medical supplies and equipment. If you need medical help in Nigeria, contact your medical insurance provider for advice on suitable healthcare facilities.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.