This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Terrorism/Security section (Kano). The overall level of the advice has not changed.
We advise against all travel to the riverine areas of Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States. Riverine areas are those accessible only by boat. This is because of the very high risk of kidnapping, armed robbery and other armed attacks in these areas.
We advise against all but essential travel to Akwa Ibom State and the rest of Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States, including Port Harcourt, because of the high risk of kidnapping, armed robbery and other armed attacks in these areas. On 18 December 2006, two bombs exploded in Port Harcourt, one in a Shell residential compound and the other at Agip�s headquarters. In these areas, which include Port Harcourt, you should maintain a high level of vigilance at all times, observe the strictest security measures and not travel unnecessarily.
Elections will be held throughout Nigeria on 14 and 21 April. During the electoral period the risk of serious attacks by armed militants in the Niger Delta region (Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States) will increase further. Localised unrest is likely and the security situation may deteriorate rapidly in the vicinity of election rallies. You should be extra-vigilant throughout this period and regularly review your official and recreational travel plans.
Throughout Nigeria there will be a heightened risk of political and criminal violence on the election days and on the few days before and after the elections (12-16 April and 19-23 April 2007). You should be extra-vigilant during these periods. Localised unrest is likely and the security situation may deteriorate rapidly in the vicinity of election rallies and polling stations. Minimise local travel and stay close to home, especially after dark. Avoid bars and restaurants. The Nigerian government has banned all road travel between 0700 and 1700 on 14 April. You should observe the ban and remain alert to a possible extension.
There is a high risk of further kidnappings by armed militants around the oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta. In eleven separate incidents since January 2006, 24 British nationals have been kidnapped. One Briton has been killed. Since that time over 150 foreign nationals have been kidnapped in the Niger Delta area, including from offshore facilities.
There is also a risk of kidnapping in other States in south-east Nigeria. On 17 March 2007, two Chinese nationals were taken hostage at Nnewi, Anambra State. See the Terrorism/Security section of this travel advice for more details.
If you decide to travel to, or remain in, these areas you do so at your own risk. The level of consular assistance we can provide in these areas is limited. If your presence is essential, it would be reckless to travel to, or remain in, these areas unless you have taken appropriate professional security advice and have acted upon it. If travelling by road you should use fully protected transport.
Localised outbreaks of civil unrest can occur at short notice. Details and advice are circulated via the British High Commission’s Community Liaison Officers’ network.
Violent crime is especially prevalent in the south of the country, including Lagos.
The most common problems encountered by British nationals in Nigeria are attempts by scam artists to extract money from their intended victims. These scams come in many forms and can cause considerable financial loss to victims.
You should be aware of the threat from terrorism in Nigeria. A statement issued by Usama Bin Laden in February 2003 called for an uprising by Muslims in a number of countries including Nigeria. He suggested that �faithful Muslims� rise up against the Nigerian Government. He also referred to �support for brothers� in Nigeria in December 2004.
Outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Nigeria have resulted in one human fatality. As a precaution, you should avoid live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked. For further information see Avian Influenza section below and also read Avian and Pandemic Influenza Factsheet.
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.