Australian govt warns citizens against travelling to Nigeria, lists 22 high-risk states
The Australian government has advised its citizens to avoid travelling to Nigeria by every means possible.
Over 20 states, including Abuja, the nation’s capital, were listed for Australians to avoid in a travel advisory posted on the consulate’s website on Wednesday.
The Vanguard reports that the country also listed terrorism, kidnapping and other criminal activities as reasons for its nationals to reconsider making trips to the most African populous country.
The Punch also revealed that the Australian embassy further advised its people to thoroughly study the routes to use and get professional security advice if their trips to Nigeria are important.
The statement reads: “There have been significant casualties and widespread damage to infrastructure caused by severe flooding. Essential services may be disrupted. Follow the advice of local authorities and check the media for updates.
“The potential for terrorism, kidnapping, crime and civil unrest remains high throughout Nigeria. If, despite our advice, you undertake travel within Nigeria, research routes and get professional security advice and support before departing.
“Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall, including the capital Abuja and surrounding areas, due to high threats of terrorist attack and kidnapping, the volatile security situation, possible violent civil unrest and high levels of violent crime”.
Twenty-two Nigerian states named in the Australian government’s list of high-risk areas for kidnapping and violence are: Adamawa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.
