Is Ibadan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Ibadan, like many large cities, requires caution when traveling alone at night. While the city can be vibrant and lively, it is advisable for solo female travelers to avoid going out alone after dark. Be sure to use reputable transportation services when necessary. Though the feeling of safety may vary greatly depending on the neighborhood and time of night, overall it's not recommended to walk alone at night there.

Public transportation in Ibadan often includes buses and taxis, which are generally reliable during daylight hours. However, they can become less secure at night. Buses are often crowded, which may result in discomfort. It's recommended to always stay alert of your surroundings, keep personal belongings close and utilize reputable taxi services when possible.

While traveling through Ibadan, instances of street harassment can occur, and it's noticeable but not overwhelmingly pervasive. Always ensure public decorum and respectful interactions, as Nigerian culture appreciates manners. However, unwanted attention can still happen, mostly in the form of staring, verbal comments, or occasional following. Make sure to be confident, maintain a low profile, and where possible, link up with locals or fellow travelers for safety in numbers. It's advisable to dress modestly and respect cultural norms to minimize drawing unwanted attention.

Travel in Ibadan, requires a heightened level of vigilance due to prevalent petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and mobile phone theft, especially in crowded areas. While the local authorities are making efforts to ensure safety, it is advisable to keep your personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Drinking tap water in Ibadan can pose health risks as it might be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The local infrastructure is not always reliable and water quality can vary between regions and even different times of the year. It's advisable to either boil the tap water for at least one minute or drink bottled water, which is widely available.

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.

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.

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.