'Consider avoiding travel after dark': Britons given holiday warning as protests may break out in popular African destination
Britons have been given an important travel warning
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Holidaymakers in Nigeria have been told that protests could occur with "little notice".
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued advice to Britons about political instability in the country.
Holidaymakers are advised: "Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid.
"Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds.
Nigeria is a beautiful holiday destination
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"If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.
"Incidents of intercommunal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria.
"Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.
"Widespread public demonstrations took place across Nigeria from 1 to 7 August, including in major cities of Abuja and Lagos.
"This resulted in disruptions, reports of violence and use of tear gas by security services in various locations.
"Protests have now largely receded but may reoccur with little notice. Exercise caution when travelling, consider avoiding travel after dark, avoid large crowds and gatherings and monitor local media reporting, as well as UK Travel Advice."
Britons considering visiting Nigeria should consult the FCDO for information on warning and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks, health and getting help.
The FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Nigeria. The UK Government department said: "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)."
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'Widespread public demonstrations took place across Nigeria from 1 to 7 August'
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Areas where FCDO advises against travel
North East Nigeria
FCDO advises against all travel to:
- Borno State
- Yobe State
- Adamawa State
- Gombe State
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- Bauchi State
- Taraba State
North West Nigeria
FCDO advises against all travel to:
- Kaduna State
- Katsina State
- Zamfara State
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- Kano State
- Jigawa State
- Sokoto State
- within 20km of the border with Niger in Kebbi State
North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- Niger State
- Kogi State
- Plateau State
South East and South South Nigeria
FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas (the river and swamp locations accessible by boat, but not by road) of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- Abia State
- non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers and Akwa Ibom states
- Anambra State
- Imo State
Nigeria-Niger border
The FCDO said: "The Nigeria-Niger land border has been closed by the Nigerian authorities in response to the political situation in Niger. If you’re planning to travel by land across this border, check with the local authorities for the latest information before travelling."
Britons should see Niger travel advice before travelling by land across this border.