FG Retaliates, Caution Citizens Against Travelling To Australia 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to advise citizens of the country planning to travel to Australia to take into cognizance the prevailing security situation in some cities. This is imperative for Nigerian travellers and residents in Australia due to reported cases of discrimination, harassment and verbal abuse targeted at foreigners. The unfortunate recent surge in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate crimes in Australia has increased the risk of violence, hence the need for caution. 

While Australia is generally known for its multiculturalism and tolerance, incidents of Islamophobia and antisemitism have occurred recently in certain areas. In early December 2024, a disturbing incident occurred in the Sydney suburb of Woollahra, where a car was set ablaze and anti-Israel graffiti was sprayed on nearby buildings. This event is part of a broader increase in both antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents in Australia, coinciding with international conflicts and tensions. 

Nigerians are therefore advised to be mindful of the prevailing cultural and social dynamics to ensure their safety and comfort. To this end, extra vigilance and necessary precautions are strongly recommended. 

Nigerian travellers and residents of Australia who experience or witness any form of racist attack or harassment should contact the High Commission of Nigeria at 26 Guilfoyle St, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Canberra, Australia. 

Phone: +61262158500. Email: [email protected] 

Earlier, the Australia had urged its citizens to reconsider their need to travel to Nigeria overall due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest.

Higher levels apply.

Do not travel to:

Adamawa,

Anambra,

Akawa Ibom,

Bauchi,

Bayelsa,

Borno,

Cross Rivers, 

Delta,

Federal Capital Territory (excluding Abuja),

Gombe,

Imo,

Jigawa,

Kaduna,

Kano,

Katsina,

Kebbi,

Kogi,

Niger,

Plateau,

Rivers,

Sokoto,

Taraba,

Yobe, and

Zamfara states; due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest. 

Safety

There’s a high risk of terrorist attacks across Nigeria by various militant groups. Attacks could be indiscriminate or may target foreign interests. 

Potential targets include places where crowds gather, such as hotels, bars, restaurants, political meetings, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, sporting events, transport hubs and networks, law enforcement facilities, international organisations and camps for displaced people.

There have been protests and strikes over the cost of living, and these could reoccur anytime without warning. Avoid all demonstrations, strikes, rallies and gatherings. These can turn violent and have sometimes been met with forceful suppression by security forces, including the use of live fire. Trading and business disruptions have occurred. Maintain stocks of essential supplies.

The kidnapping threat is high throughout Nigeria. 

There’s a high rate of crime in Nigeria, including violent crime. The homicide rate is very high in many parts of the country. Follow the instructions of local authorities.

You should organise professional security advice and support before you depart to Nigeria.

Avoid intercity transport by road and rail due to the high incidence of criminal and terrorist attacks. If you plan to travel within Nigeria, get professional security advice and support before departing. Australian officials always use enhanced security measures when they travel. Keep your car doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight. Arrange airport transfers with someone you know or book a hotel car. Don’t use ridesharing services, taxis, or public transport. Don’t travel after dark.

Internet romance, friendship and employment scams originate from Nigeria. If you travel to Nigeria as a scam victim, you may expose yourself to the threat of physical harm or theft. Be wary of online contact from people you don’t know. Don’t send money until you’ve checked who you’re sending it to.

Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks.