The Canadian government has issued a new travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Nigeria, including the capital, Abuja, due to increasing threats from terrorism, armed attacks, crime, and kidnappings.
While the entire country is considered high-risk, Canadians are advised to exercise heightened caution in Lagos and Calabar rather than avoiding them entirely. Other regions, particularly in northern and central Nigeria, face severe instability from extremist violence, banditry, and communal conflicts. The advisory specifically lists Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Plateau, Niger, Kogi, Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Taraba, and Yobe as dangerous areas.
The Niger Delta also remains volatile, with Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states flagged for avoidance, though Port Harcourt itself is not under a complete ban. Border areas within 10 km of Cameroon, Niger, and northern Benin are considered especially risky due to cross-border militant and criminal activity.
Canadian authorities warn that terrorist attacks can occur without warning, often targeting public places, government institutions, and foreign visitors. Kidnappings for ransom remain widespread. Canadians in Nigeria are urged to stay alert, limit movements, and follow local news for updates.
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