1. Put Safety First: States in northeastern Nigeria such as Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa carry risks of terrorist attacks and kidnappings. Stay updated on safety advisories issued by your government and the embassies or consulates in Nigeria, and avoid high-risk areas.
2. Keep Your Itinerary Focused: Choose relatively safe cities and well-established routes. Avoid traveling at night or to remote areas, and opt for flights or reputable private transfers when covering key routes.
3. Prepare Visa Documents Thoroughly: Apply for an e-visa in advance or submit your application to the embassy or consulate in your country. Carry copies of your passport, visa, and invitation letter for inspection.
4. Yellow Card and Vaccinations: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is usually required upon entry. Nigeria is a malaria-endemic area, so take mosquito prevention measures and consult a doctor about preventive medication if needed.
5. Food and Water: Drink only bottled or sealed water. Avoid raw, cold, or street food that isn’t thoroughly cooked. Carry common gastrointestinal medications.
6. Cash and Payments: Carry only small amounts of cash needed for the day. Use cards or mobile payment methods for larger purchases, and avoid displaying money in public.
7. Use Ride-Hailing Apps for Transport: Prefer platforms like Uber and Bolt. Choose pick-up and drop-off points at malls or hotels, and choose flights for long-distance travel.
8. Mosquito, Sun, and Heat Protection: Apply mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves and pants. The dry season is dusty, and the hot season is extremely warm—stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
9. Respect Local Culture: Nigeria has a diverse mix of ethnic groups and religions. Dress modestly and always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites.
10. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Share your itinerary and emergency contact numbers with family. Save the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in Nigeria, and seek help promptly in case of emergencies.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Before you go, double-check that you have: a valid visa and yellow card, confirmed round-trip flights and accommodation, travel insurance covering emergency medical care and evacuation, essential medications, and a UK-style power plug adapter. Save electronic copies of important documents on your phone and in the cloud, and inform your family of your travel plans. Upon arrival, exchange a small amount of Nigerian Naira for emergencies at the airport or hotel, and check the current exchange rate before setting out. Also, confirm the security conditions and transport arrangements at your accommodation in advance. Take note of the hotel’s address and phone number, and review the latest safety advisories from your government and the embassy or consulate in Nigeria. If your trip involves remote areas, carefully assess the necessity and ensure you have reliable local contacts. It’s recommended to carry a small amount of cash and a debit or credit card that works internationally. Keep your documents and valuables stored separately to reduce the risk of loss or theft.