Australia Issues Fresh Travel Warning on Nigeria Over Security Risks

The Australian government has strengthened its travel advisory on Nigeria, warning its citizens to avoid travel to 26 states and parts of the Federal Capital Territory due to escalating security concerns.

In the updated notice released on Tuesday through its Smartraveller platform, Australian authorities cited persistent threats including terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and civil unrest across large parts of the country.

Australia advised its nationals to carefully reconsider any travel plans to Nigeria, stressing that the overall security environment remains unstable and unpredictable, with heightened risks in several regions.

The advisory highlighted a high likelihood of terrorist attacks nationwide, particularly in crowded public spaces such as markets, hotels, transport hubs, places of worship and government buildings. Travellers were urged to remain vigilant and steer clear of public gatherings, protests and rallies, which could turn violent without warning.

Specific locations flagged as high-risk include Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory outside central Abuja.

Australian officials also warned that kidnapping remains a serious threat, with foreign nationals previously targeted for ransom by criminal groups operating in different parts of the country.

The notice further cautioned that consular support may be limited or unavailable in high-risk areas, especially for travellers who choose to ignore official advice.

The latest warning mirrors a similar advisory issued in 2024. Shortly after the new alert, Nigeria responded with its own caution to citizens travelling to Australia, citing reported cases of discrimination, harassment and verbal abuse against foreigners.