Is Abuja Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Abuja, has a moderate level of safety for solo female travelers. While the city is generally safer than many other parts of Nigeria, crime such as pickpocketing and robbery can still occur, particularly in crowded areas. Abduction is also a concern, though this is more common in the country's northeastern regions. As a solo traveler, you should always have heightened vigilance, especially during the night, avoid travelling alone in remote districts and stick to the main roads and well-lit areas. It also helps to dress modestly to blend in with the locals.
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How safe is Abuja?
Safety at night:Unsafe
Abuja is generally safe during the day but can be a bit risky at night, especially for solo female travelers. Walking alone is not highly recommended after dark due to sudden crime incidents like pickpocketing and mugging. As with anywhere else, it's safer to move in groups or stay in well-lit, populous areas, and always keep a vigilant eye on your surroundings. Don't flaunt expensive belongings in public and always maintain a low profile.
Public transportation:Moderate
Public transportation in Abuja is moderately safe. Buses and taxis are common means of transportation but they are often crowded which may not ensure personal safety and belongings. Also, it's not unusual to encounter aggressive drivers. However, with the proper precautions, such as only using officially marked taxis, not traveling at night, and being aware of your surroundings, you should be able to navigate the city relatively safely.
Street harassment:Moderate
While Abuja is generally considered safer and more friendly towards foreigners compared to other parts of the country, it's not void of occasional street harassment. Milder forms of harassment, such as catcalling or unwanted attention can be common particularly in crowded markets or public transport. Serious incidents are less frequent but caution, vigilance, and a sensible approach to dressing appropriately according to local customs and environment should always be maintained.
Petty crimes:Moderate
While extremely vigilant security measures exist, petty crimes like pick-pocketing and purse-snatching are relatively common in Abuja, especially in crowded places and local markets. Therefore, it's essential as a traveler to always stay cautious, avoid isolated areas, and secure your belongings.
Tap water:Unsafe
Drinking tap water in Abuja, isn't recommended for foreigners as it's not consistently safe. It may contain bacteria or parasites that people raised outside Nigeria may not be accustomed to, which can cause traveler's diarrhea or worse. It's advisable to opt for drinking bottled, boiled, or treated water to prevent any waterborne diseases.
Is Abuja safe to travel?
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Be the first to share your experience.Is Abuja safe right now?
Before your visit to Abuja, it's essential to check travel advisories for Nigeria, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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United States Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel
The United States government advises reconsidering travel to Nigeria due to factors such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and presence of armed gangs. Please note that some areas pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 20, 2023
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel
Government Advisory: The Canadian Government recommends avoiding non-essential travel to Nigeria, encompassing Abuja. This counsel is attributed to the unpredictable security situation throughout the country. It further emphasizes the significant risk of terrorism, crime, inter-communal clashes, armed attacks, and kidnappings. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel
The Australian government advises reconsidering the need to travel to Nigeria. This is due to the volatile security situation, combined with threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. There is also the risk of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 2, 2024
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Safety in Nigeria
