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The very thing that makes Nigeria so ornery and difficult to unite into a single peaceful republic is also its attraction. There are over 250 different peoples, languages, histories, and religions all rubbing shoulder to shoulder in this hectic, colourful and often volatile republic.
Travel Warning: Militants Active - Foreigners Targeted
Kidnappings and attacks on foreign oil workers are an ongoing threat in Nigeria. Reports from news sources suggest more than 200 foreign oil workers have been kidnapped in the Niger Delta in past two years. In many cases, a ransom is paid to ensure hostages are released. The Bakassi Peninsula and the riverine areas in Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta are considered very dangerous. Armed gangs continue to fight in territorial disputes - travellers should avoid these regions.
Religious tensions bubble under the surface in Nigeria, and mass unrest isn't uncommon - keep your ear to local news sources. Lagos has a poor reputation for street crime and carjackings.
See what travellers are saying about Africa at Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree forum .
severity: High-level alert
Fast Facts
Country Full Name
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Population
130,000,000
Currency
Name: Naira
Code: NGN
Symbol: ₦
Electrical Plugs
240V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: English
Time Zones
GMT/UTC + 1
Country Dialing Code
+234
Weights & Measures
Metric
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Destination Nigeria
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Paul Clammer reckons there's nothing scary about Nigeria, except maybe the goat's head soup... Join him on his pot-holed journey. Read the full article ›
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
