The United Kingdom government has issued a fresh travel advisory warning its citizens about worsening insecurity in Nigeria, identifying 20 states as high-risk destinations.
In a recent advisory from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) obtained on Sunday, the UK highlighted rising incidents of kidnapping, terrorism, armed violence, and communal clashes across Nigeria.
British nationals in Nigeria are urged to exercise extreme caution, review security arrangements, and keep contingency plans in place.
The advisory strongly discourages all travel to six northern states — Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara — due to threats from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWAP), especially near transport hubs, religious sites, and public gatherings.
Travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba, and the outskirts of Abuja is discouraged unless essential, citing a surge in violent crimes and ongoing military operations.
In the Niger Delta, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states are flagged for militant attacks on oil and gas facilities and frequent kidnappings.
The South East is described as volatile due to clashes between secessionist groups and security forces.
The South West, including Lagos, has seen increased armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnappings, though large-scale terrorist attacks remain rare. The FCDO recalled ISWAP’s claim of responsibility for attacks in the region in 2022.
The UK government advises its citizens to stay vigilant, avoid large crowds, and follow local security advice while in Nigeria.
