British control over what would become Nigeria (Africa’s most populous country) grew throughout the 19th Century. A series of constitutions after World War II granted Nigeria greater autonomy, and independence came in 1960. Following nearly 16 years of military rule, a new constitution was adopted in 1999, and a peaceful transition to civilian government was accomplished. The government continues to face the daunting task of institutionalizing democracy and reforming a petroleum-based economy, whose revenues have been squandered through corruption and mismanagement. In addition, Nigeria continues to experience longstanding ethnic and religious tensions. Although both the 2003 and 2007 presidential elections were marred by significant irregularities and violence, Nigeria is currently experiencing its longest period of civilian rule since independence. The general elections of April 2007 marked the first civilian-to-civilian transfer of power in the country’s history. In January 2010, Nigeria assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2010-2011 term.

Immunizations: Contact your physician or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication, and advise you on the precautions to take to avoid getting sick.

Travel Insurance: Ingle International provides comprehensive travel insurance for adventure travelers who wish to cover themselves in preparation the unexpected.

Entry/Exit Requirements: To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting.

Medical facilities are basic in major cities, and limited outside of urban centers. Due to the high incidence of fake medications, prescriptions, and over-the-counter drugs, travelers should not purchase drugs in Nigeria unless they can do so from a well-known, reputable clinic. Travelers are strongly encouraged to bring adequate supplies of necessary medications, and to make sure that they are in their original containers and clearly labeled.

Avoid Non-Essential Travel

The decision to travel to a dangerous location is the sole responsibility of the traveler. Travelers are responsible for their own personal safety. 

Crime

There is a high level of crime throughout Nigeria, including armed robbery, hostage-taking, and violent assault. Criminal activity has reportedly increased in urban areas. Robberies and muggings, often conducted by large, well-armed groups, commonly occur in places frequented by expatriates. Some have been committed by persons posing as police or military personnel.

House robberies remain a serious concern in the residential areas of Lagos, and are on the rise in Abuja.

Petty crime is common in crowded places, especially in public markets. Beaches, particularly those in the vicinity of Victoria Island (Lekki and Bar Beaches), should only be visited in large groups and during daylight hours.

Incidents of armed robbery and carjacking have occurred along main routes to international and domestic airports. As these areas tend to be scarcely monitored by local authorities, travelers should be accompanied by an escort vehicle (with police)when going to or leaving an airport.

General Safety Information

Travelers should carry with them photocopies of official identification at all times. Passports, visas, and travel documents should be safely stored.

Foreigners should remain discreet, avoid walking alone at all times, and refrain from displaying any signs of affluence in public. Valuables or bags should not be left unattended.

If traveling to Abuja, it is advised to stay at reputable hotels only.

Local telecommunications are subject to disruptions. Visitors should always carry a mobile phone. Use of a mobile phone is the preferred method of telecommunications, and there are a significant number of mobile phone companies in Nigeria.

The country experiences regular fuel shortages. Travelers should habitually monitor local media sources for indicators of the circumstances that precede fuel shortages, and ensure that they have adequate supplies on hand.

Fraud

Cases of attempted fraud are frequently reported in this country.