Flood: Australian government advises citizens not to visit to Nigeria

The recent flooding that has wreaked havoc in some areas of Nigeria prompted the Australian government to issue a travel advisory to its residents on Wednesday.

The PUNCH was able to obtain a copy of a travel warning for Australians that stated the following: “There have been serious casualties and widespread infrastructure damage as a result of catastrophic flooding. There could be a disruption in crucial services. Pay attention to local authorities’ advise and news reports for updates.

“The potential for terrorism, kidnapping, crime and civil unrest remains high throughout Nigeria.

The consulate further warned its people to plan their travel and seek expert security guidance and support before leaving for Nigeria, should they have a need to be there.

The Australian consulate nonetheless provided a lengthy list of states in the nation that they urge their nationals to stay away from, including Abuja and its surroundings because of the possibility of terrorist strikes and kidnappings.

“Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall, including the capital Abuja and surrounding areas, due to high threats of terrorist attack and kidnapping, the volatile security situation, possible violent civil unrest and high levels of violent crime.

“Do not travel to Adamawa, Anambra, Akawa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara States.

Giving tips on what to do if, in the aforementioned states (locations), the consulate advised that its citizens should consider leaving immediately or get professional security advice as their travel policy might be void.

Fi TV