The United Kingdom has issued a fresh travel warning to its citizens following the rising wave of insecurity across Nigeria.
In an updated advisory released by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and published on GOV.UK, the UK government highlighted a growing number of incidents involving kidnapping, terrorism, violent crime, and intercommunal clashes throughout the country.
British Citizens Urged to Exercise “Extreme Caution”
The advisory urges British nationals living in or visiting Nigeria to maintain a high level of vigilance, review their personal security measures, and ensure contingency plans are in place.
According to the FCDO, six northern states Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara are now classified as no-go areas due to the heightened threat posed by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The UK government warned that attacks are likely near transport hubs, religious gatherings, and crowded public spaces. Humanitarian workers have also been identified as potential targets for insurgents operating in the region.
Ten More States Under ‘Essential Travel Only’ Advisory
The FCDO further cautioned against all but essential travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, and Taraba states, along with the outskirts of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. The advisory cited increasing incidents of banditry, violent attacks, and communal clashes in these areas.
In the North-East, military operations in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe continue to pose significant risks, with fears of retaliatory assaults making movement within cities such as Maiduguri particularly unsafe.
Security Tensions Spread Beyond the North
The Niger Delta region, including Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states has also been listed as high-risk. The UK government noted ongoing militant activities, including attacks on oil and gas installations and frequent cases of kidnapping for ransom.
In the South-East, clashes between secessionist groups and security forces have escalated, raising concerns for both residents and foreign nationals.
Even the South-West, which includes Nigeria’s commercial hub Lagos, is witnessing a rise in armed robbery, car-jacking, and abduction incidents, especially at night. While major terrorist attacks are rare in the region, the FCDO reminded travelers that Islamic State West Africa had previously claimed responsibility for attacks in 2022.
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UK Restates Commitment to Citizen Safety
The advisory underscores London’s growing concern about Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation. The FCDO reiterated its call for British nationals to remain alert, stay informed about local developments, and avoid unnecessary travel to volatile regions.
The statement concludes with a warning that the UK may update its travel guidance if security conditions continue to worsen across Nigeria.