FCO(UK) advice dated 29/06/2001:
"Most visits to Nigeria are trouble-free but visitors should be aware that violent crime is prevalent in Lagos and elsewhere in the south of the country.
Disturbances occurred between Saturday 23 and Wednesday 27 June, in Nassarawa State, resulting in a number of deaths. The situation is changing rapidly and we advise those intending to visit Nassarawa or travel on the Akwanga-Makurdi road to contact the British High Commission in Abuja before setting out. British nationals in Nassarawa State should exercise caution and avoid large crowds.
Violent street crimes, armed robberies, muggings and car jackings are prevalent in Lagos and elsewhere in the south of the country. These are often committed by ordinary criminals. There has recently been an increase in attacks on British nationals, expatriates and Nigerians on the Islands of Victoria and Ikoyi in Lagos. There has also been an increase in car-jacking, particularly in the Lagos regions. Top of the range 4 x 4 vehicles are especially vulnerable.
All visitors should arrange to be met on arrival at Lagos Airport by someone who is known to them or who properly identifies themselves (bogus greeters are a problem). This will ensure safe transport of themselves.
Certain parts of the country have experienced localised civil unrest and violence. The causes and locations of any unrest vary. Outbreaks have occurred in Lagos (Mainland and Lagos Island). South eastern Nigeria, the Delta region, Anambra, Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Gombe and Nassarawa (Central Nigeria) where we advise travellers intending to use the Akwanga-Makurdi road to contact the British High Commission, Abuja. Demonstrations for or against Sharia law may occur in northern states and can become violent without warning. There have also been demonstrations about the situation in the Middle East. British nationals are not specifically targeted. However, they and their vehicles may become caught up in a demonstration or disturbance.
There have been attacks of piracy/armed robbery against ships at anchor in Nigerian waters and at many of the waters and at many of the harbours in the Niger-Delta area. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautions.
Visitors should be aware of frequency of hostage taking for ransom in Delta, River and Bayelsa States. More than a dozen British nationals were kidnapped last year. All were released unharmed, but there is no guarantee of peaceful resolutions in any future incidents. All are taken hostage due to local community problems. Although we do not advise against travel to the region, all visitors should be vigilant at all times. All resident British nationals should follow their employers’ local security guidelines. Others should seek local advice about travel and should make sure that local hosts/family know their travel plans and timings."
And an extract from the US Govt site -
http://travel.state.gov/nigeria.html
consulate employees travel in armored vehicles between the islands and Murtala Mohammed International Airport. When traveling to the airport at night, Consulate employees are accompanied by a second vehicle carrying a police officer.
[ 10 July 2001: Message edited by: newswatcher ]