Location: Nigeria
Date: October 21, 2020
Event: Continued Protests
Demonstrations continue across Nigeria. Some protests have become violent, and there have been incidents of property destruction. There are also reports of increases in security force presence and intervention in multiple locations throughout the country, including Abuja, Lagos, and other major cities.
There were multiple reports of shootings overnight in the Lekki area of Lagos. In Abuja, protesters and counter-protesters have moved throughout the city, at times causing traffic gridlock. There have been isolated incidents of violence and vandalism in both cities.
Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja remain fully operational, though some airlines have canceled flights. Protests have occurred along the Abuja Airport road, impeding traffic. Please check with your airline for any flight updates and use caution if you need to travel.
U.S. citizens in Lagos State are advised to respect the ongoing 24-hour, round the clock curfew. We urge all U.S. citizens to avoid areas around demonstrations and to check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Continue to be vigilant. Communications networks may be disrupted. Consider using SMS, landlines, social media, and email to check in with family and friends.
As a result of Lagos State’s ongoing 24-hour curfew, the Consulate General in Lagos, including the Consular Section, remains closed to the public.
Actions To Take:
- Avoid the areas of the demonstration(s).
- Remember to let your family members know you are safe.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Keep a low profile.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Review the Travel Advisory for Nigeria.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Abuja, Nigeria
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area
+234 (9) 461-4328 and after hours +234 (9) 461-4000 press zero.
AbujaACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate Lagos
2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island
+234 (1) 460 3400 during business hours and after-hours
LagosACS@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.