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Port Health Services Ministry of Health

Health declaration form.

The Nigeria Health Declaration Form must be filled out by all incoming passengers to Nigeria. Paper-based versions will be provided on arrival in Nigeria for passengers unable to fill the form.

Health Declaration Form

This form is an instituted measure to prevent the spread, monitor the possible importation of infectious diseases and aid the control of disease outbreaks thereby protecting the health of all Nigerians

Kindly go through the form and fill the required fields.

Verify Information

Carefully verify that all details are correct and proceed to submit.

Submit Form

Submit form and download a copy either from here or your email.

Phone: 6232 Whatsapp No.: +234 70 8711 0839 SMS Number.: +234 80 9955 5577 Email: [email protected]

Introducing the Nigeria International Travel Portal (NITP), for Intending Travellers to Nigeria

Are you intending to travel to Nigeria?

If yes, before your trip, visit https://nitp.ncdc.gov.ng to carry out the following:

– Fill out the Pre-boarding Health Declaration and Screening form.

– Upload on the portal, COVID-19 Negative PCR test result of a test taken not more than 96 hours before the date of travel

– Select an appointment date and laboratory for a repeat COVID-19 test to be done 7 days after arrival in Nigeria. (Online payment will be required, on the site).

– Receive a payment confirmation and a bar-coded print out which you will present at airport check-in in your country of departure and to the Health officials at your port of entry in Nigeria.

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Travel Advisory September 20, 2023

Nigeria - level 3: reconsider travel.

Updated with return to full operational status, removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links, and updates to Do Not Travel Areas.

Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to  crime ,  terrorism ,  civil unrest ,  kidnapping , and  armed gangs .   Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to :

• Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states due to  terrorism  and  kidnapping
• Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to  kidnapping
• Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to  crime ,  kidnapping , and  armed gangs.

Country Summary :  Violent crime – such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage taking, roadside banditry, and rape – is common throughout the country. Kidnappings for ransom occur frequently, often targeting dual national citizens who have returned to Nigeria for a visit, as well as U.S. citizens with perceived wealth. Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate roads.

Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting shopping centers, malls, markets, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, government installations, transportation hubs, and other places where crowds gather. Terrorists are known to work with local gangs to expand their reach.

There is civil unrest and armed gangs in parts of Southern Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta and Southeast regions. Armed criminality and gangs, including kidnapping and assaults on Nigerian security services is also pervasive in this region.

Violence can flare up between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Nigeria due to security conditions.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Nigeria.

  If you decide to travel to Nigeria:

• Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Review travel routes and times to vary your predictability.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Establish a “proof of life” protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Nigeria.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread terrorist activity, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Terrorist groups based in the Northeast routinely target humanitarian camps, security forces, churches, schools, mosques, government installations, educational institutions, entertainment venues, and road travelers.

Approximately two million Nigerians have been displaced as a result of the violence in Northeast Nigeria.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread inter-communal violence and armed criminality, especially kidnapping and roadside banditry. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Crime is rampant throughout Southern Nigeria, and there is a heightened risk of kidnapping , violent civil unrest , and armed gangs .

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Polio and Yellow Fever

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy abuja.

1075 Diplomatic Drive Central District Area, Abuja Nigeria Telephone: +234 209 461 4328 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Lagos 2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria Telephone: +234 201 460 3400 (Monday through Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +234 201 460 3400 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A passport valid for six months, a visa, and proof of Polio and Yellow Fever vaccinations are required to enter Nigeria. You must obtain your Nigerian visa from a Nigerian embassy or consulate in advance of your travel.

What does "Visa on Arrival" mean in Nigeria?  Nigeria's "Visa on Arrival" requires pre-approval.  You must receive a Visa on Arrival approval document from a Nigerian embassy or consulate prior to travel to Nigeria. A Visa on Arrival is only available for the purpose of business travel, as defined by the Nigerian government. No Visa on Arrival is available for tourism. If you attempt to travel to Nigeria without a visa issued into your passport or a Visa on Arrival approval document from a Nigerian embassy or consulate, you will be refused entry. This information is subject to change. Please refer to the Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS) guidelines ( https://immigration.gov.ng/visa-on-arrival-process/ ) and utilize the forms available on their website.

Visit the  Embassy of Nigeria  website for the most current visa information.

The Nigerian Fire Arms Act (1990) provides that no person shall have in his possession or under his control any firearm or ammunition except such person that has a license from the President or from the Inspector General of Police. U.S. citizens found with firearms (declared or undeclared) will be arrested.   

You cannot legally depart Nigeria unless you can prove, by presenting your visa and entry stamp, that you entered Nigeria legally.  In addition, if you exceed your authorized period of stay (as determined by the duration of stay given by the entry officer), you will be required to pay a fine before being allowed to depart. The fine can be up to $4,000 USD depending on the length of overstay.

U.S.-Nigeria dual-national citizens are now required to have a valid Nigerian passport in order to depart the country. Dual-national citizens can be, and often are, denied boarding until they have obtained non-expired Nigerian passports.

A World Health Organization (WHO) yellow card is required for entry into the country. The Nigerian authorities require a  Yellow Fever  vaccination within the past ten years and that adults have a  Polio  booster after the original childhood vaccine series. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes a  country-specific list  of recommended vaccines to receive prior to arrival. See also the Health section below.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Nigeria. Nigerian authorities may deny entry to foreigners who are “undesirable for medical reasons” and may require HIV tests for foreigners intending to marry Nigerian citizens. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Nigeria  before travel.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is focused on unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Please see our most recent  Travel Advisory  for more details.

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Crime : Muggings, assaults, burglaries, car-jackings, rape, kidnappings, and extortion occur regularly. Law enforcement authorities usually respond slowly and often do not have the resources to provide investigative support to victims.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens beyond Abuja and Lagos and their immediate surrounding areas. U.S. government employees may be subject to travel constraints as security conditions warrant.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams :  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Nigeria. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:  

• Romance/online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Inheritance notices 
• Nigerian Letter or “419” Fraud

Victims of Crime :  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or Consulate General in Lagos for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112, and contact the Embassy at +(234)(9)461-4328 or Consulate General at +(234)(1) 460-3400. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Justice in Nigeria may be uneven. Many crimes go unsolved. Others may not be prosecuted to a successful conclusion for the victim.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. citizen victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on  victims’ compensation programs in the United States .
• Provide information on victims’ assistance programs in Nigeria:
• National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons ( NAPTIP )
• Women Trafficking and Child Labor Eradication Foundation ( WOTCLEF )
• Women at Risk International Foundation ( WARIF )
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. Even within major cities, the limited number of first responders and extreme traffic congestion can cause lengthy delays in response time. Emergency services comparable to those in the United States or Europe are non-existent, and the blood supply is unreliable and unsafe for transfusion. You should consider traveling to the United States, Europe, or South Africa for treatment for serious conditions.  U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Maritime Security : Piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Guinea continue to trend upwards. Pirates/armed groups operating in the region typically carry out attacks on vessels using automatic weapons. Attacks, kidnappings for ransom, and robbery of crew, passengers, and ship’s property continue to be common occurrences.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Possession, use, or sale of cannabis and related products is prohibited under Nigerian law.  U.S. citizens who violate the law may be subject to arrest and prosecution. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General immediately. In cases where detainees are dual citizens (holders of U.S. and Nigerian citizenship), the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General may not be promptly notified. See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers :  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers : Consensual, same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Nigeria. Entering same-sex marriage contracts and civil unions (defined to include “any arrangement between persons of the same sex to live together as sex partners”) is also criminalized, with punishments including fines and prison sentences of up to 14 years. Same-sex marriage contracts and civil unions entered into in a foreign country are not recognized under Nigerian law.

Public displays of affection between persons of the same sex are also punishable by up to ten years imprisonment. Furthermore, the law allows for the prosecution of persons who support or belong to advocacy groups relating to LGBTI issues, with prison sentences of up to ten years. U.S. citizens who participate in free speech or assemblies relating to same-sex marriage could potentially be prosecuted under this law.

In the following northern states, where Sharia law applies, penalties can also include death: Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page.

Travelers with Disabilities:   The law in Nigeria prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities; however, the law is very unevenly enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. 

Few government buildings, schools, banks, or grocery stores have accessible facilities, including in Abuja and Lagos. Some hospitals and clinics are equally inaccessible to people with disabilities and lack wheelchair ramps or lifts, including some of the hospitals travelers commonly use. Expect accessibility to be very limited in transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, and largely absent outside of major cities. 

Much of the disability equipment for sale locally is refurbished rather than new. Replacement parts can be found in local informal markets and are also generally refurbished parts. Imported higher-end equipment such as electric wheelchairs and lifting equipment can be purchased from a limited number of medical equipment suppliers in the major cities.

Students :  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers :  Rape is a crime in Nigeria. According to the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, rape is punishable by 12 years to life imprisonment for offenders older than 14 and a maximum of 14 years imprisonment for offenders younger than 14. Rape remains a rampant problem.

The VAPP Act, currently applicable only in the Federal Capital Territory, addresses sexual, physical, psychological, and socioeconomic violence, and harmful traditional practices. Federal law criminalizes female circumcision or genital mutilation (FGM/C). Twelve states have also banned FGM/C, though the practice remains common in parts of both Northern and Southern Nigeria.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Nigerian medical facilities are generally poorly equipped. Many medicines are unavailable, including medications for diabetes or asthma. Take care when purchasing medicines locally, as counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a common problem, and may be difficult to distinguish from genuine medications. Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.

Emergency services comparable to those in the United States or Europe are non-existent, and the blood supply is unreliable and unsafe for transfusion. For serious medical problems, you should consider traveling to the United States, Europe, or South Africa for treatment.

For emergency services in Nigeria, dial 112.

Ambulance services are: 

• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment. 
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. 
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. 

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Federal Ministry of Health  in Nigeria to ensure the medication is legal in Nigeria.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further Health Information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• https://healthapp.ncdc.gov.ng/guidelines-and-protocols/
• https://healthapp.ncdc.gov.ng/health-declaration-page/

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health Facilities in General :

• Adequate health facilities are available in major cities, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff are available overnight (in non-emergency wards). Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, and approaches to treatment and services might be significantly different than the United States.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery :

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry worldwide. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling. 
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Nigeria.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Nigeria.  

Pharmaceuticals :

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.  

Non-Traditional Medicine :

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died while seeking medical care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners.  We recommend that you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy :

• If you are considering traveling to Nigeria to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Although surrogacy agencies/clinics claim surrogacy is legal in Nigeria, there is no legal framework for foreigners to pursue surrogacy in Nigeria. As a result, surrogacy agreements between foreign intending parents and gestational mothers vary widely and are not enforced by Nigerian courts.
• Even though you may have a surrogacy contract, it is not clear if the contract will stand in court as a custody agreement. Therefore, parents should consider obtaining a custody order in Nigeria to be certain their parental rights are recognized.
• Surrogacy for same-sex couples is illegal in Nigeria.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Nigeria via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Water Quality :

• Tap water is unsafe.  Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.  Be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested, and  may use tap water to make ice for drinks.

Adventure Travel :

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health :

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Diarrheal illness
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Lassa Fever
• Meningococcal meningitis
• Schistosomiasis
• Trypanosomiasis
• Tuberculosis
• Yellow fever
• The U.S. Centers for Disease Control lists Nigeria as “critically high risk” for Malaria. Malaria is especially fatal in Nigeria and accounts for a high burden of disease and death in travelers.
• All travelers should take chemoprophylaxis, even for short stays, and even if they are African by descent.  
• Avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn and wear clothing over exposed skin whenever possible. Sleep with windows closed and under air conditioning.
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Nigeria.

Air Quality :

• Reliable air quality data for Nigeria is limited. However, satellite data suggests that on average it is significantly worse than in the United States. Poor waste management practices and commercial pollution exacerbate seasonal weather variations that affect air quality. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
• Infants, children, and teens.
• People over 65 years of age.
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. 
• People with heart disease or diabetes. 
• People who work or are active outdoors. 
• Travelers with allergies and/or respiratory disease may experience illness and are encouraged to bring ample supply of prescription medications.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Roads are generally in poor condition, causing damage to vehicles and contributing to hazardous traffic conditions. There are few working traffic lights or stop signs, and few traffic officers to manage traffic during power outages. The rainy season, generally from May to October, is especially dangerous because of flooded roads and water-concealed potholes.

All drivers and passengers should wear seat belts, lock doors, and keep windows closed. You should have appropriate automobile insurance.  Drivers and passengers of vehicles involved in accidents resulting in injury or death have experienced extra-judicial actions, i.e., mob attacks, official consequences such as fines and incarceration, and/or confrontations with the victim's family.

Driving between 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. should be done with extreme caution.  Automobiles, trucks, or “okadas” (motorbikes) often drive on the wrong side of the road or on sidewalks.

Traffic Laws : Motor vehicle accidents can be reported by dialing “119.” Traffic control officers may occasionally seek bribes when citing drivers for traffic violations. If stopped by traffic police, drivers should stop as instructed. However, drivers should also keep their doors locked and only roll their windows down an inch for sound. Do not pay any bribes.If requested to drive an officer to the police station, do not do so, especially at night, as some traffic police are imposters.

Public Transportation :  We recommend avoiding public transportation throughout Nigeria. Public transportation vehicles, such as buses and motorbikes, are unsafe due to poor maintenance, high speeds, and overcrowding. Motorbikes are banned within Abuja's city limits and many major thoroughfares in Lagos. “Okada” drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets in several cities; police can fine violators on the spot.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information, and visit Nigeria’s  Federal Road Safety Corps  website.

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Nigeria’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel : Mariners planning travel to Nigeria or through the Gulf of Guinea should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  ICC  and  NGA  broadcast warnings.

The Commandant of the Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Nigeria ports and has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports having visited ports in Nigeria. Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of Nigeria should exercise increased caution.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Nigeria . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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May 23, 2022 • 9 min read

The neighborhoods of Lagos brim with commerce and culture © Alucardion / Shutterstock

It’s in the DNA of Lagos to welcome visitors and make them feel at home, whatever the length of their stay.

A common saying, loosely translated, praises Lagos for having room enough for “owners of the house, the guest and the lazy.” It is what this metropolis has done over the centuries, attracting traders, explorers and migrants of all types. As Nigeria ’s commercial and entertainment capital, Lagos remains a magnet for people, Nigerians and foreigners alike, welcoming them with its warmth, energy and color. 

Before you make your trip to this thrilling city, here are a few tips to keep in mind to experience Lagos like a local.

What Covid restrictions are still in place?

Early in April 2022, the Nigerian government announced a revised Covid-19 travel protocol, effectively opening up the country again to inbound travelers. The good news is that fully vaccinated travelers no longer require PCR tests or isolation of any kind, though they do still need to register on the Nigeria International Travel Portal .  

Talk to your doctor about preventing malaria – even if you’ve been here before

Because Lagos is in the tropics, malaria is one of the more common health risks of traveling in the region. Your doctor will prescribe the right medicines to carry along with you; it is also advisable to also have mosquito repellents as backup. Nigerians abroad usually take such precautions if they are visiting for the first time in a while.  

Ride-share apps are the best way to get from the airport and around the city

When you roll your luggage past arrivals, opt for a ride-hailing service (like  Uber and Bolt ), preferred by locals for more-comfortable commutes around the city. Alternatively, you could plan to have a resident meet you, avoiding the stress of having to decide which of the approved taxi operators – all of whom loudly call out to arriving patrons in the terminal – to pick.   

Always have cash on you, just in case – and know how to handle it

You can pay for pretty much anything in Lagos with a debit card, whether for extra room nights or having your hair styled. Increasing numbers of vendors now own point-of-sale (POS) machines, making everyday trading transactions a lot faster and seamless. 

Still, it’s advisable to have some Naira notes – especially in denominations of N50 ($.12), N100 ($.25), N200 ($.50) and N500 ($1.20) – on you at all times, for those awkward moments when the mobile networks fail and cash transfers don’t go through. ATMs throughout the city make withdrawing cash easy. When paying for purchases (or giving or collecting any item, for that matter) be sure to do so with your right hand; older Lagosians consider it disrespectful to hand over cash with the left hand.  

Pack your summer clothing no matter what month you arrive

Lagos has humid weather, with the average temperature is in the region of 32°C (90°F), sometimes reaching 35°C (95°F). So T-shirts, jeans, cotton pants and shorts are likely all you’ll need during your stay. The city experiences rainy (May–August) and dry (November–April) seasons, which you should consider as you plan the best time to visit .

Brace for the noise 

As a first time visitor, you’ll immediately notice that Lagos is a packed city: one of the smallest states in Nigeria, it’s also the most populous, with over 20 million residents. It also has a rather high noise level, thanks to honking frequently, sermons from megaphones in religious centers, bus conductors calling out for passengers and other boisterous sources. If you stay in a hotel near a church or mosque – both of which dot nearly every part of the city – expect services throughout the week to cut into your quiet moments.

Always factor road traffic into your plans

With water transportation still largely underdeveloped and a light-rail network still under construction, Lagosians depend heavily on roads to go about their daily lives. As a result, traffic congestion is infamous in the city. Public transportation is a disorderly mix of licensed mini-buses ( danfo ), taxis and cabs ( kabu-kabu ) operating from garages and roadsides, all of which criss-cross  the many vibrant neighborhoods of the city . 

Three-wheeled transports ( keke marwa ) are ideal for neighborhood shuttles, as are motorcycle taxis ( okada ) – though the latter are officially banned on several routes state-wide, including on major highways. While buses charge fixed rates on their routes, you’ll have to agree on a price before your ride using any of the other options. 

Enjoy the street life, but stay alert

Day and night, Lagosians know to keep their wits about them when taking a stroll or shopping, as smartphones have been reported as stolen in crowded markets or at indoor events. Even so, ignore dire warnings and plunge into the city’s unparalleled urban tableau, which will be one of your most lasting memories of Lagos. 

Island or Mainland? You decide

Lagosians generally refer to themselves as Islanders or Mainlanders, depending on which side of the Lagoon they find themselves on. Everywhere, however, residents affectionately refer to their hometown as Lasgidi.     

For administrative purposes, Lagos is divided into five broad regions that together form an acronym (IBILE), for Ikeja (the capital), Badagry (the far west), Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe (the eastern end of town). Wherever you choose to stay in Lagos, every part comes with its own vibe, with plenty of fun and fantastic things to see and do in every district. 

Learn some pidgin

Lagos is dominated by the Yorubas but contains residents hailing from almost every ethnic group in Nigeria. While English is the official language of everyday speech and business, pidgin – a homegrown variant – is spoken and understood by almost everyone; in fact, Lagos could well be the country’s pidgin capital. It’s a good idea to learn a few common sayings before you arrive, to use as you’re going about the city:

• How you dey ? (How are you?) • How now ? (How are things?) • Wetin you tok ? (What did you say?) • Abeg (please) • Na so (That’s true) • E don do (It’s enough) • Lai lai  (impossible/never)

Lagosians light up when foreigners chat them up in pidgin, or in the local Yoruba language.

Get a Cowry card

At some point during your stay, you should try the ease and convenience of a BRT (bus rapid transit), one of the more successful public-private partnerships aimed at solving the city’s transportation challenges. Beloved by many, BRTs travel on dedicated lanes from 6am to 8pm and can sometimes be the best way to avoid traffic as you enjoy views of the cityscape. 

To get on the long, air-conditioned buses, you’ll need to buy a Cowry card at any of the main terminals (Ikeja, Oshodi, Berger, TBS, Ajah or Ikorodu), then top it up with cash before you board. As you get on and off, simply tap in and out to pay your fare. According to the state government, the card will be usable on the light rail and shuttle ferries by 2023.  

The second half of the year is festival season, so plan accordingly

The home of Nollywood and Afrobeats, Lagos is fun year round – but the city really comes to life in the second half of the year. The arts scene booms: post-Covid, new galleries have opened on both the Island and Mainland, and a new exhibition gets announced seemingly every other week. Stage plays and musicals are becoming fairly regular, too. 

August is when the floodgates open, and the city throbs with multiple arty events. While some require an invitation, most are free to attend. The Lagos Books and Art Festival , Lagos Fringe ,  LagosPhoto , Lagos Fashion Week , MUSON (with drama, classical music and dance offerings), the  Lagos International Jazz Festival  and the Lagos International Film Festival are some of the major events on the cultural calendar each year. 

If you’re around during the festive Christmas period, you’re in for a real jamboree. A state-sponsored, weeklong fiesta showcases the best of Lagos entertainment scene from comedy to concerts, as the city closes out one year and begins a new one. Visit during this period to fully understand why “Èkó for Show” is a slogan the city embraces proudly.   

Weeknights are for bar-hopping and catching up with friends 

Lagos is all hustle and bustle during the daytime. And as Lagosians work hard, they also play hard. On weeknights, open-air and neighborhood bars are packed with people sitting out the evening rush-hour traffic, discussing the day’s news and events or simply catching up with friends. Most have in-house DJs, who add to the fun and excitement; some of the bars also serve food, with  suya (barbecued beef), barbecued fish and pepper soup all standard offerings. Note that  suyas and pepper soups are quite spicy and are not to be rushed – bite and slurp with caution, and sip a lot of water to lessen the sting.  

If you get an invitation to an owambe , accept it

On weekends, Lagosians take themselves to beaches, malls or cineplexes. And they dress up to attend birthdays or wedding parties ( owambe ), which are a point of pride here. If you’re lucky to be invited to any of these gatherings, accept at once. This will be your free pass to an afternoon of joy and spectacle, complete with ceremonial costumes and spirited dancing. If you wish to dress as the locals do, a custom outfit can be stitched to order in 24–48 hours.

Typically, the parties are feasts, marked by an almost never-ending flow of food and drinks. Starters are small bites (fried puff-puffs, samosas, spring rolls), accompanied by an assortment of drinks. The main dish could be anything from white rice, jollof rice or fried rice to iyan , eba , amala  and a variety of soups; at buffet events, ask your hosts for advice on which “swallow” (yam, cassava or rice) goes with which soups, stews or sauce, and which delicacies can be served on the same plate or taken together ( ofada rice with bean soup, for instance, would attract curious giggles). One more thing to keep in mind to dine like a true Lagosian: you may use cutlery for some meals, but the proper way to eat swallows is with your hands, after rinsing in water.  

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Nigeria Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Nigeria. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Yellow Fever in Nigeria March 28, 2024 Yellow fever cases remain elevated in Nigeria, after an outbreak was first reported in November 2020. Travelers to Nigeria should take steps to prevent yellow fever by getting vaccinated at least 10 days before travel and taking steps to prevent mosquito bites.
• Diphtheria in Nigeria February 16, 2024 There is an outbreak of diphtheria in several states in Nigeria. Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against disease. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines.
• Global Polio January 05, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is  widespread  in Nigeria. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Nigeria.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Nigeria.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Nigeria take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Nigeria.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Nigeria  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Nigeria poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Nigeria are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Nigeria who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Nigeria. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Nigeria, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Nigeria. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.  

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Avoid animals

• Scratched or bitten by an infected animal such as a rodent or primate
• Touching an infected animal or touching animal products, including skins and meat
• Being near an infected person who is coughing or sneezing
• Touching the body fluids or rash of a person with monkeypox
• Avoid animals and animal products
• Avoid people who are sick

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Lassa Fever

• Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats
• Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids

Lassa fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Nigeria, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Nigeria. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Nigeria include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in Nigeria. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Nigeria’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Nigeria. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Nigeria may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Nigeria, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Nigeria for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

• General Health
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• Think Pieces
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Visa Application Guidelines

Entry visa/freezone guidelines:.

• Visit the Home page of Nigeria Immigration Portal
• Locate & click on the appropriate application form to start the process:
• Entry Visa/Freezone Application Form
• Fill the Application form; check the ' I ACCEPT FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS FORM ' check box.
• Click on 'Submit Application' button to view ‘Applicant details page’
• Click on “Proceed to Online Payment”
• Click to select Payment Currency “Pay in Dollars” option then Click on ‘Continue’ button

For Payment Outside of Nigeria

• If you select a processing country other than Nigeria, your payment will be in US Dollars. You will be re-directed to an approved payment platform to complete your application and make your payment in US Dollars.
• Please take your visa payment receipts, passport and other documents to the Nigerian Embassy in your Country of abode on your slated interview date for your Visa.

Tourist / Visitor Visa:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Completed visa application form
• Two recent passport size photographs
• A Letter of Invitation from a company/host in Nigeria accepting immigration responsibility
• Visitors/Tourists are required to show evidence of sufficient funds
• Nigeria Immigration Service Visa Payment Receipt and Visa Acknowledgement Receipt

Business Visa:

Temporary work permit (twp):.

• Passport with at least 6 months validity
• Printed copy of completed application form for visitors pass
• Copy of the Letter of Approval from Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service

Subject to Regularization (STR):

• Completed visa form in quadruplicate with four recent passport photographs
• Four copies of letter of Expatriate Quota Approval from Ministry of Interior
• Four copies of credentials, certificates and curriculum vitae, all vetted by a relevant official of Nigerian High Commission/Embassy (English Certified translated copy where applicable)
• Four copies of offer Letter of Employment
• Four copies of Letter of Acceptance of employment, signed by expatriate

Re-entry Visa Guidelines:

• Re-entry Visa Application Form
• Click to select Payment Currency “ Pay in Naira ” option then select PayType (payment method): “Bank”, “Credit/Debit card”.
• If you intend to pay at a bank, selected “ Bank ” and click continue,
• View the list of participating banks and then click on ‘Continue’.
• The “Print Acknowledgment” button will help you print “Payment Acknowledgment Slip” with Transaction ID, Application ID & Reference Number.
• With the copy of your Payment acknowledgement slip, proceed to a participating bank for payment.
• On making payment at the bank, you MUST be issued with an 'approved payment platform provider' receipt that contains "Validation Number". You will need the "Validation Number" for confirmation of payment on the portal.
• If you intend to pay through Credit/Debit card, select “ Credit/Debit card ” and click continue,
• You will be required to fill in your log-in credentials.
• After filling in, click “Login” button and you will be sent to the payment portal
• For proceeding with the payment click the “PAY” button.
• Payment portal display application details, click on “Continue” button.
• You will be prompted to “ ValuCard ” payment page, provide information of your card & Click on “OK” button
• After payment, the “Validation Number” is generated. Store it and use it to confirm the payment.
• You can also print a receipt by clicking the “Print the Receipt” button.

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e-Planning Permit

MANUALLY SCREENED APPLICATIONS FROM ALL THE DISTRICT OFFICES ARE NOW ACCEPTABLE THROUGH THE EpP PORTAL.

ALL APPLICATIONS CONTINUE THROUGH THE NEWLY UPGRADED (EpP) PORTAL.

Do-It-Yourself

Awesome Support

Optimized Process

Free Updates

Apply for planning permit all by yourself, get your approved permit letter without hassle;

Satisfaction is guaranteed, our staff are well trained to support you anytime;

Obtain your Planning Permit within 28 Working Days of submission of Application;

ePP updates you every stage of your planning permit process. Guaranteed!;

Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA)

Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) was established by Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2010 as one of the Agencies/ Parastatals under the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development (MPP&UD)

A planning permit is a legal document that gives permission for a use or development on a particular piece of land.

The process includes;

Start application with partial payment

Site inspection with balance payment

Complete application with update on progress

Notification of approval and pick up

ePP is the first electronic automated do-it-yourself planning permit platform in Nigeria.

Proudly supported by Lagos State Government, World Bank and Eco Bank Nigeria Plc. e-Planning Permitis a success step to e-Government.

They can’t be wrong

Coverage guaranteed

Many more to come

Lagos ePP is here to serve you better...

Register here within few seconds, start applying for your planning permit

Your Convenience Matters

You can apply for planning permit from the comfort of your house. Get updated on every process stage of your application

Yes, your Convenience Matters

Registration takes a very few seconds..

ePP updates you every stage of your planning permit process. Guaranteed!.

Join The 100+ Happy applicants :)

E-PLANNING PERMIT UPDATES

• Infrastructural Development Charge (IDC) is NOT charged on 2-Floor Warehouse for Storage of Non-Obnoxious and Non-Hazardous Materials.
• Soil Investigation Report is NOT a requirement for non-Marshy area.
• CTC of Survey is NOT a requirement to process Planning Permit; only Stamp-Duty Land Receipt and any other forms of Title documents.
• Stamp-Duty Land Purchase Receipt is required for Provisional Permit while CTC Land Title Document is a prerequisite for Final Permit within Eighteen (18) Months of Provisional Permit.
• Certificate of Structural Stability is NOT a requirement for a proposed 2-floor Warehouse Permit.
• 3rd Pouring of Concrete is NOT applicable for a proposed 2-Floor Warehouse.
• Physical Planning Technical Report (PPTR) is a requirement (evidence of cleared report at submission is only required) and NOT a procedure.
• All applications continue through the newly upgraded (EPP) Portal (https://www.epp.lagosstate.gov.ng)
• Manually screened applications are now acceptable through the ePP portal.
• Staff will be on ground in all District Offices to offer necessary assistance.

• Help centre
• Travel advice

Nigeria travel advice

On this page:

Nigeria travel alerts

There are currently no travel alerts - You're good to go!

Please check the travel advice for all countries in your itinerary .

Entry requirements

For fully vaccinated travellers, pre-departure tests.

From the 12 December 2022, all passengers regardless of vaccination status no longer require a pre (or post) departure COVID-19 test. 

Proof of Vaccination

All customers travelling to Lagos are no longer required to provide proof of their vaccination status. 

Entry documents

You must complete a  health declaration  form online prior to your arrival into Lagos. You can find and complete the form  here  ahead of arriving at the airport.

COVID-19 testing on arrival

From the 12 December 2022, all passengers regardless of vaccination status no longer require a pre or post departure COVID-19 test. 

You are not required to self-isolate on arrival in Lagos.

Exit requirements

From the 12 December 2022, all passengers regardless of vaccination status no longer require a post (or pre) departure COVID-19 test. 

If you are a UK passport holder visiting Nigeria, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from your date of entry into Nigeria.

This guidance is for UK passport holders only.  Passengers from other countries  should check with the necessary Government department in their country of residence for travel information.

If you are not a Nigerian national, you'll usually need a visa to visit the country. Entry requirements differ, depending on your nationality and the reason for your visit.

To find out more about the entry requirements into Nigeria, please contact the Nigeria High Commission.

Apply for a Nigerian visa

If you need a Nigerian visa, we can help. We've partnered with VisaCentral, the global visa and passport experts, where for a fee they will apply for your visa on your behalf. And if you're a Flying Club member, you'll also earn two miles for every £1 you spend.​

Apply for your visa now

You can also apply for your visa through the Nigeria High Commission in London:

Nigeria High Commission

Tel:  020 7839 1244

Opening hours Mon - Fri: from 09:30am to 05:30pm

For non vaccinated / partially vaccinated travellers

From 12 December 2022, all passengers regardless of vaccination status no longer require a pre (or post) departure COVID-19 test. 

You must complete a  health declaration  f orm online prior to your arrival into Lagos. You can find and complete the form here ahead of arriving at the airport.

You are not required to quarantine on arrival in Lagos

Masks are no longer mandatory onboard the aircraft or in the terminal building when travelling to/from Lagos. 

Spraying in the cabin

The process of disinsection is required by WHO (World Health Organisation) and local health authorities to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, e.g. Malaria.

On our Lagos route, we spray the inside of the aircraft with insecticides, which is recommended under the WHO based on their safety and effectiveness.

The spray we use onboard is Phenothrin (1R-trans phenothrin), which dissipates within a few minutes after being sprayed in the cabin.    

Our cabin crew will make an onboard announcement when the spraying of insecticides is about to take place. We encourage customers to use this opportunity to cover their nose, eyes and mouth if they wish to do so. 

Airport guides

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS)

Help topics

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

North East Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Borno State
• Adamawa State
• Gombe State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Bauchi State
• Taraba State

North West Nigeria

• Kaduna State
• Katsina State
• Zamfara State
• Jigawa State
• Sokoto State
• within 20km of the border with Niger in Kebbi State

North Central Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja

• Niger State
• Plateau State

South East and South South Nigeria

FCDO advises against all travel to the riverine areas (the river and swamp locations accessible by boat, but not by road) of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.

• non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers and Akwa Ibom states
• Anambra State

Nigeria-Niger border   

The Nigeria-Niger land border has been closed by the Nigerian authorities in response to the political situation in Niger. If you’re planning to travel by land across this border, check with the local authorities for the latest information before travelling.

See Niger travel advice before travelling by land across this border.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel . 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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