Canada Advises Citizens to Avoid Non-Essential Travel to Nigeria Amid Security Concerns

The Canadian government has updated its travel advisory, urging citizens to refrain from non-essential travel to Nigeria due to ongoing security threats. The advisory, released on 24 November, highlights risks including terrorism, armed attacks, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping.

While Abuja is included in the general warning, Lagos and Calabar are marked for heightened caution because of crime. Northern states such as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara, as well as Northcentral and Northeastern regions including Plateau, Kogi, Borno, and Adamawa, are designated high-risk, with all travel strongly discouraged.

The Niger Delta states, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers are also flagged, except for Port Harcourt where only non-essential travel is discouraged. Border areas near Cameroon, Niger, and northern Benin are considered particularly dangerous.

The advisory highlights frequent violent demonstrations, unpredictable security operations, and curfews as potential threats to travellers. In urban centres, including Lagos, crime such as armed robbery, home invasions, carjackings, and targeted attacks on foreigners is prevalent.

Terrorism remains a concern nationwide, with threats against security forces, public venues, places of worship, and transport networks. Political events, religious holidays, and large gatherings are noted as particularly vulnerable periods.

Road and public transport travel are described as hazardous due to poor infrastructure, armed robbery, and criminal checkpoints. Coastal piracy and scams, including ATM and online fraud, are additional risks.

Special warnings address the vulnerability of women travelling alone, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals who may face legal or social discrimination. Health advisories highlight the risk of measles, polio, diphtheria, and other preventable diseases, urging travellers to update vaccinations before departure.

Canadian citizens in Nigeria are advised to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ guidance, and monitor media updates while in the country.