Is Abuja safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Nigeria

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Nigeria at Level 3, Reconsider Travel, and this is a country-level advisory rather than one issued specifically for Abuja.
• UK FCDO guidance warns of a high threat of terrorist attack in Nigeria, with attacks possible in places visited by foreign nationals such as markets, malls, hotels, and government buildings, including within the Federal Capital Territory.
• Terrorist kidnapping is described as highly likely in parts of Nigeria, and the guidance states that foreign nationals, including tourists and business travelers, have been treated as targets in the past.
• Political rallies and protests can occur with little notice in major cities including Abuja, and past demonstrations have involved tear gas, rubber bullets, and live fire from security services.
• Authorities can impose curfews and restrict movement or communications, including mobile networks and wi-fi, at short notice, so travelers should confirm current conditions with local contacts.
• UK guidance also flags high levels of violent street crime and armed carjacking on urban and rural roads, with visitors sometimes targeted due to perceived wealth, so limiting road travel after dark and avoiding visible valuables is advised.
• Solo travelers in particular should stay alert in crowded public spaces, avoid predictable travel patterns, and move away from any situation that appears threatening rather than attempting to pass through it.