Nigeria

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the outbreak of COVID-19, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex and rapidly changing. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly. Should you decide to travel despite our advice, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand must undertake 14 days of government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand (excluding those from Antarctica, Australia and most Pacific Islands) must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result before departure. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against Covid-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

Nigeria

Terrorism
There is a very high threat from terrorism, especially in northern and northeastern states, and terror attacks occur very regularly in Nigeria. There have been many serious attacks which have resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries. The terrorist group Boko Haram regularly mounts large-scale attacks in Nigeria, including bombings, gun assaults and mass kidnappings. Future attacks are highly probable, most likely by Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa (ISWA).

Most attacks take place in areas where we advise Do Not Travel, however future attacks could occur anywhere in Nigeria. The Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) has been targeted in several attacks in recent years, resulting in high numbers of deaths and injuries. Further attacks in Abuja, Lagos and elsewhere are likely and could be indiscriminate.

Common targets include churches and mosques during times of worship, government and security institutions, hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, markets, educational facilities and police stations. Many attacks have occurred around religious or public holidays or festivals in public and crowded places. We advise New Zealanders to remain vigilant at all times. Locations frequented by foreigners have been attacked and may be targeted again. 

Military operations against Boko Haram in northern and north-eastern parts of Nigeria are ongoing. New Zealanders in Nigeria should be aware that any increase in violence between security forces and terrorist groups is likely to increase the possibility of terrorism throughout Nigeria.

Local authorities in Nigeria often impose, amend and lift curfews in response to security incidents at short notice. New Zealanders in areas affected by violence are advised to monitor local media for the latest information on possible curfews and restrictions on movement, and follow any advice from local authorities.

Kidnapping
There is a high threat of kidnapping throughout Nigeria, particularly in North and North-Eastern Nigeria and in the Niger Delta states. Attacks are often indiscriminate – residents and foreigners alike have been abducted and held captive, with some deaths being reported.

Expatriate workers at oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta states are at particular risk of kidnapping, which is typically financially motivated. New Zealanders working in the Niger Delta states against our advice are advised to seek professional security advice and ensure appropriate personal security measures are in place at all times.

Violent Crime
There are high rates of violent crime such as armed robbery, home invasion, mugging, carjacking and violent assault throughout Nigeria. Crime is more prevalent at night, particularly in urban areas, such as Lagos, and on the main highways.

New Zealanders in Nigeria are advised to be security conscious at all times and should avoid walking and travelling at night, particularly to isolated areas. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of a robbery, mugging or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery. We also recommend carrying the minimum amount of cash required.

When driving you should keep doors locked, windows up and keep any valuables out of sight. We recommend using prearranged transport only or making bookings through your hotel.

Civil Unrest
Numerous deaths and injuries have occurred as a result of violent civil unrest and inter-communal violence in Nigeria in recent years. There is an ongoing risk of violence, particularly in central and northern regions.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all large public gatherings, protests, demonstrations and rallies as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent. If you are in an area affected by unrest, you should leave the immediate vicinity, stay indoors and monitor local media to stay informed of developments.

Piracy
Piracy, including against off-shore oil rigs, is a significant problem in Nigerian waters. There have been armed robberies targeting ships in the coastal areas of the Gulf of Guinea, including in the Niger Delta region.

Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report.

Scams
Commercial and internet fraud is common in Nigeria. New Zealanders should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.

General Information
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Nigeria, the ability of the government to provide assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited, particularly in areas where we advise against all travel.

We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Nigeria should consider.

Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour in Nigeria to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Photography of airports, government buildings and military installations is illegal, and can result in fines or imprisonment.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Nigeria should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Nigeria are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

The New Zealand Embassy Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is accredited to Nigeria

Street Address Bole Sub City, Woreda 09, House No 111, Behind Atlas Hotel/close to Shala Park, (Namibia Street), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Postal Address New Zealand Embassy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Private Bag 18-901 Wellington Mail Centre 5045, Wellington Telephone +251-11-515-1269 Fax +251-11-552-6115 Email aue@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/ethiopia Hours Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance, please call the Embassy on +251 11 515 1269. Outside of business hours you will be redirected to an after-hours duty service.

See our regional advice for Africa

MIL OSI