Full list of Nigerian states where the UK advises against travel

The United Kingdom has issued a stark warning to travelers planning trips to Nigeria, advising against travel to numerous states due to ongoing security concerns. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance on August 20, 2026, categorizing several regions where travel is strongly discouraged.

In the North-East, the FCDO advises against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Gombe states. Similarly, in the North-West, Katsina and Zamfara states are flagged for the highest level of travel warning. The advisory also extends to specific riverine areas in the South-East and South-South, including Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states, particularly those accessible by boat rather than road.

Furthermore, the UK government advises against all but essential travel to a broader list of states. This includes Bauchi in the North-East, and in the North-West, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba, and Kwara states. The guidance also covers specific areas within the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding regions, as well as non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Abia, Anambra, and Imo states.

A critical component of the updated advice is a warning regarding travel insurance. The FCDO explicitly states that insurance coverage could be invalidated if travelers proceed to areas against which warnings have been issued. The government emphasizes the importance of researching destinations, obtaining appropriate insurance that covers planned activities and potential emergencies, and reading the full guidance before departure, while acknowledging that no travel can be guaranteed completely safe.