‘Remain alert’: British holidaymakers given Africa warning as holiday destination faces ‘high threat’
Holidaymakers should check the latest travel updates before travelling
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The Government has updated its advice for Britons thinking of visiting Nigeria this summer as the destination faces security threats.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) gave a warning that there is a “high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals”.
The FCDO website reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain alert at all times.
"Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid.”
Holidaymakers should check the latest travel updates before travelling
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The Government body warned that “terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks” in crowded areas.
Britons are advised to check the latest UK Foreign Commonwealth Office Travel Advice for the latest updates on the country they are visiting.
“The primary terrorist threat in Nigeria comes from Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) and Boko Haram,” warned the FCDO.
“These groups are mainly based in north-east Nigeria in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.
“Since 2021, there have also been attacks likely associated with terrorist groups in Niger, Kaduna, Kogi, Bauchi, Ondo, Zamfara, Taraba, Jigawa, Sokoto, Edo and Kano states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.”
The attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur at any time, including in places frequented by foreign nationals, such as:
- Places of worship
- Markets
- Malls
- Hotels
- Bars and Restaurants
- Sports venues and screenings
- Displacement camps
- Train networks and stations
- Government buildings
- Educational institutions
- International organisations
- Large public gatherings.
When a security alert is issued, Britons are encouraged to consult UK Counter Terrorism Policing for information on staying safe abroad, and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.
Counter Terrorism Policing said: “The chances of being caught up in a terrorist incident are low but sadly we have seen atrocities take place in the UK and abroad.
“It is important everyone stays alert and knows what to do if the worst was to happen.”
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Britons are encouraged to consult UK Counter Terrorism Policing for information
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In the case of an emergency, travellers are advised to:
- Run to a place of safety, as this is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.
- Hide rather than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone on silent and only use it when it is safe to do so.
- Inform the local emergency services, ensuring you know the necessary contact numbers in the country you are travelling to.
The warning comes shortly after the FCDO gave an “updated assessment that terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Thailand”.
Holidaymakers were told potential terrorist targets include security forces, government offices, hotels, shops and supermarkets, and transport infrastructure.