Nigeria has high crime levels, especially in the far north eastern regions of Nigeria, which is troubled by Boko Haram. There is widespread police corruption and misbehaviour, especially by the SARS, which has led to protests all over the country in 2020. The Niger Delta also suffers from low-level violence between the government and local militant groups as well as kidnapping of oil workers.
You are advised to avoid large crowds, demonstrations, gatherings, public events and crowded locations, follow media coverage and inform yourself about current (local) developments before traveling. The situation in much of Nigeria’s territory is extremely chaotic; several regions are increasingly unsafe not only in the northeast and the Niger Delta, but also in the northwest and the central region it has become very unsafe. While until recently kidnappings were a major problem in the Niger Delta and the Northeast, this has recently become an acute problem across the country (observers speak of 1,000 kidnappings per year), and increased vigilance is warranted.
Northeast, Northwest & Central Nigeria
The terrorist group ‘Boko Haram’ continues to carry out regular attacks in northeastern Nigeria and military actions in the northeast are currently pushing the rebellion on the defensive. The humanitarian situation in this region is still worrying. Nearly 2,000 people were killed in clashes between ranchers and farmers in central Nigeria in 2018. Fighting also kills in the Northwest: 3000 civilians in the past 2 years. In addition, as a result of the terrorist actions, very strict police checks are being carried out in several federal states.
Niger Delta
The number of kidnappings and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta and off the coast at the Niger Estuary is rising. The ‘cultism’ phenomenon is also increasing in this region. These are secret societies that originated in student environments but are increasingly involved in criminal activities. In 2019, at least 60 people died as a result of such attacks or violent clashes between cult groups.
Crime
Violent crime (armed robberies, kidnappings, carjackings) has recently occurred in almost all parts of the country. Sometimes those crimes are committed by individuals wearing police or army uniforms. Burglaries often happen by heavily armed gangsters. Thieves do not shy away from raiding restaurants, supermarkets and pharmacies, where they force customers to hand over money, jewelry and valuables at gunpoint. Border crossings and customs posts in particular are a favorite target for theft, cheating and threats.
In Abuja it is recommended not to travel alone between the airport and the city and to avoid it at night. Travelers arriving in Lagos should be particularly vigilant. Upon arrival at the airport, it is best for them to be picked up by someone they know who can guarantee safe transport to the city or a trusted travel agency. The trajectory of the airport building to the new car park is frequented by thieves and robbers. Several sources also reported kidnapping attempts by foreigners. Perpetrators were always persons who presented themselves as agents of protocol services or customs.
In the past, some migration or anti-drug officials have been reluctant to intimidate travelers by asking difficult questions about their identities or baggage. The aim is always to extort money. Travelers should remain polite, but as far as possible do not rush into this. A stationary vehicle can always be attacked, even in a traffic jam. Robberies or fake checks with criminal intent are a regular occurrence, especially on the connecting roads between cities.
It is strongly recommended not to drive at night. It is best to keep all car doors and windows closed permanently. For longer journeys, it must be ensured that the means of transport is technically in order. Armed mobsters patrol the main roads and ambush – sometimes very violently – stranded passengers.
Unknowns who offer their help unsolicited often have a criminal intent. Do not accept proposals that promise a reward.
Organized corruption is widespread in Nigeria. Do not give information about your person, your family, credit cards or bank accounts to people you do not know well, including in correspondence or by telephone.
It is not uncommon for (business) people to be victims of fraud by so-called Nigerian businessmen. During trade prospecting, it is necessary to be careful when choosing local business partners and to have all necessary guarantees before entering into transactions.
Internet crime
Internet crime is a widespread phenomenon. Virtual partners are in many cases scammers who are only after money. One should also be careful when selling through websites. The layout of the bank that supposedly makes payments is often imitated. It is recommended to first ask a Belgian bank whether it is an authentic message.
Attempts at defrauding so-called chat and e-mail ‘friends’ are frequent. Stories are made up about fictitious hospitalizations, robberies and accidents, where the life of the so-called victim can only be saved through financial assistance (from Europe). The so-called victim usually needs urgent money to be able to return, pay the hospital, reimburse the police or immigration officers. Never go into that. Victims of such crime can file a complaint with the Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, although that hardly ever yields anything.
