11 Essential Travel Safety Tips Every Nigerian Should Know

Nigerians love to travel, and the world is opening up more than ever before. From Lagos to London, Abuja to Dubai, many are exploring new destinations for study, business, leisure, and family visits. 

It is often said that a Nigerian can be seen in the remotest parts of the earth.

Yet, beyond the excitement of a journey lies the reality of staying safe and succeeding in your mission abroad.

International travel comes with risks: theft, scams, illness, or emergencies. 

However, with the right preparation and awareness, you can enjoy your trip without unnecessary worries. 

Here are eleven practical safety tips we’ve articulated every Nigerian traveller should know in 2025.

Keep your documents safe

Your passport is your lifeline abroad. Keep it secure in a money belt or hotel safe. Carry photocopies or digital scans of your passport and visa in case of theft or loss. Losing a passport in a foreign land can disrupt your entire trip.

Register with your embassy

Before travelling, and also after arriving, register with the Nigerian embassy or consulate in your destination.

This makes it easier to reach you in emergencies like natural disasters, political unrest, or health crises. You’ll also know where to turn if you face trouble.

Stay alert at airports and transport hubs

Thieves often target busy airports, bus terminals, and train stations. Keep bags zipped and within sight. Avoid showing large amounts of cash. Move confidently, and never leave your luggage unattended, not even for a minute.

Choose safe accommodation

Research hotels, hostels, or rentals before booking. Read reviews carefully. Stay in places with good security, well-lit surroundings, and 24-hour reception. Cheap deals may look attractive, but safety should come first.

Watch out for scams

Tourists are easy targets for scammers. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Confirm taxi fares before the ride. Use official websites for tours and tickets. When in doubt, politely decline and walk away.

If you’re lucky to be visiting friends or family, take their advice with more than a pinch of salt. They understand the terrain, laws and culture better.

Protect your money

Carry only what you need for the day. Use debit or credit cards where possible. Separate your cash into different pockets or bags. If one stash is stolen, you won’t lose everything. Notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.

Take care of your health

Travel with a basic medical kit, including painkillers and prescription medicines. Check if you need vaccinations before departure. Drink bottled water if the tap water isn’t safe. Buy travel insurance—it can save you millions if you fall ill abroad.

Learn to Read Maps and Navigate Local Transport

Google Maps is an important tool. Use it. But also download offline maps before your trip, since internet access can fail. Study city layouts and transport routes.

Learn how buses, trains, and taxis operate. Trains, trams and sometimes buses can save loads of money over taxis. But if you prefer taxis, use licensed ones from their official transport apps. For boats or ferries, stick with regulated operators. This way, you can move around safely and avoid being stranded.

Stay connected

Always keep a working phone with local or roaming data. Most Nigerian networks are accessible from foreign countries now. Once you have an internet connection, you’re good to stay in touch with home. 

Share your itinerary with trusted family or friends in Nigeria. Don’t keep them always in the dark. Regular check-ins reassure your loved ones and give you backup if things go wrong.

Respect local laws and culture

Ignorance is no excuse. Learn basic rules of your destination—dress codes, public behaviour, or restricted items.

Learn where to go and where you shouldn’t. Some neighbourhoods are prone to different categories of vices. There are countries with strict penalties for offences that Nigerians may overlook at home, such as chewing gum in Singapore or jaywalking in Germany.

Trust your instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t enter deserted alleys, accept suspicious offers, or ignore warning signs. Your instincts are a powerful travel tool. Listen to them and act cautiously.

Travelling should be about adventure, not anxiety. 

These safety tips can help Nigerians embrace the world with confidence. Have you experienced a tricky situation while travelling? 

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