Is Lagos 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, in an advisory dated June 12, 2026, and this rating applies to the whole country rather than to Lagos specifically.
• The UK FCDO describes a high threat of terrorist attack across Nigeria, with groups such as ISWA and Boko Haram based mainly in the northeast, though attacks have also been reported in a wider list of states outside that core area.
• Terrorist kidnapping is described as highly likely in parts of Nigeria, and foreign nationals, including tourists and business travelers, are considered legitimate targets by these groups.
• Political rallies and protests can occur with little notice in major cities including Lagos, and past demonstrations have been met with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live fire by security services; curfews and network shutdowns can also be imposed at short notice.
• Violent street crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, is described as widespread in Nigeria's urban areas, with travelers advised to avoid displaying cash, jewelry, or other valuables.
• Solo travelers should stay alert to their surroundings, avoid predictable travel patterns, and limit road travel after dark as a general precaution.
• Both the US and UK advisories are issued at the country level, so conditions and risk levels can differ within Lagos itself compared to other parts of Nigeria.