The United Kingdom government has issued a fresh travel advisory warning its citizens against travelling to 21 Nigerian states due to what it described as “increasing insecurity” across the country.
The advisory, released by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and updated on October 21, 2025, cited kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, and intercommunal violence as major threats facing Nigerians and foreign nationals.
“Insecurity is increasing across Nigeria. Kidnapping, violent crime, and intercommunal violence occur throughout all regions,” the FCDO stated.
In the North-East, the UK advised against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Gombe States, warning of possible retaliatory attacks amid ongoing military operations against insurgents.
It also urged British nationals to avoid non-essential trips to Bauchi State, citing the continued threat of attacks from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
In the North-West, Katsina and Zamfara States were placed on the “no-travel” list due to frequent bandit attacks, mass kidnappings, and violent clashes.
“Travelling to Kaduna, Kebbi, Jigawa, and Sokoto States was also discouraged except for “essential reasons.”
The FCDO further advised against non-essential travel to Niger, Kogi, Plateau, and Taraba States, all in the North-Central zone, citing recurring incidents of violence and armed attacks.
Even the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, came under caution. The advisory noted that violent crimes — including armed robbery and abduction — have spread from the city’s outskirts into central and affluent areas. The UK government also warned of protests “which can turn violent without notice.”
In the South-East, the advisory discouraged travel to Abia, Anambra, and Imo States due to the activities of secessionist groups and recurrent violence. Similarly, non-riverine parts of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers States were flagged for potential risks.
In Lagos, the FCDO cited “high levels of crime, particularly on the mainland,” with incidents of street robbery, assault, and theft reportedly on the rise.
Other Warnings: ‘Miracle Babies’, Methanol Poisoning, and Financial Scams
Beyond security concerns, the UK also warned its citizens about widespread financial scams, fraudulent fertility clinics, and fake adoption practices in Nigeria.
It highlighted cases of foreigners deceived into believing they had given birth through what locals describe as “miracle babies,” leading to legal complications upon returning to the UK.
“If you bring a child who is not biologically related to you into the UK without following legal procedures, you could face prosecution,” the advisory warned.
The document also cautioned against consuming unlicensed alcoholic drinks due to incidents of methanol poisoning, which have resulted in several deaths.
The FCDO further advised visitors to avoid swimming off Nigeria’s coastlines because of dangerous rip tides and undertows.
The advisory remains part of the UK’s standard global security update, which is regularly reviewed in light of prevailing conditions.
The British government said it will continue to monitor Nigeria’s security landscape while maintaining its presence in the country.
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