Is Nigeria Safe? A Realistic Travel Safety Guide (2026)

Safety is the #1 concern for visitors. The reality is nuanced: major cities are largely functional, but you need street smarts.

General Safety Rules

1. No Night Travel: Do not travel between cities (e.g., Lagos to Benin) by road at night. Fly instead.
2. Uber/Bolt: In Lagos and Abuja, use ride-sharing apps. They are tracked and safer than hailing yellow taxis off the street.
3. Airport Pickups: Arrange a pickup with your hotel or a trusted contact. Do not go with random touts at arrivals.

"Area Boys" (Agberos)

In Lagos, you might encounter street touts asking for money.

• Strategy: Ignore them, keep walking, or say "I don't have cash" firmly. Do not engage in arguments.
• Car: Keep windows up and doors locked in traffic.

Police Interactions

• Checkpoints: Common. Have your papers (passport/ID) ready.
• Requests for Money: A polite refusal usually works. "Officer, I am just a student/traveler, I have nothing for you" often suffices. Never get angry.

Health Safety

• Water: Drink only bottled water (Eva, Nestle, etc.).
• Malaria: Use repellent at night.

Emergency Numbers

• Lagos Emergency: 112
• Police: 767 (Lagos)