Nigeria issues travel advisory for citizens planning to visit the UK due to unruly anti-immigration riots

The Nigerian government has issued a travel warning for citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom due to the escalating situation following the tragic killing of three young girls at a concert.

In a travel alert released on Monday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ref. No: MFA/PR/2024/14), signed by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, Spokesperson for the Ministry, the government cautioned Nigerians that the situation in the UK has deteriorated, with reports of attacks on law enforcement officers and damage to infrastructure.

The alert advises Nigerians to exercise extreme caution when traveling to the UK. It warns those already in the UK to remain vigilant and avoid political processions, protests, rallies, marches, crowded areas, and large gatherings.

The advisory states: “There is an increased risk of violence and disorder due to recent riots in the UK following the killing of three young girls at a concert. The violence has escalated, with reported attacks on law enforcement agents and damage to infrastructure.

“Citizens are advised to be extra vigilant and take the following precautions:

• Avoid political processions, protests, rallies, or marches.
• Stay away from crowded areas and large gatherings.
• Remain vigilant and self-aware at all times.

“Contact the High Commission for any information that could be of interest via email at [email protected] or by phone at +442078391244.”

The Nigerian government explained that recent demonstrations by far-right and other extra-parliamentary groups in parts of the UK have been large and, at times, unruly. The situation has worsened with the tragic deaths of the three girls, fueling an anti-immigration narrative that targets Muslim immigrants and people of color.

“This advisory is subject to review,” it added.