The United Kingdom has issued its second travel advisory to its citizens in Nigeria in four months.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, FCDO, issued a warning against areas with banks and ATMs in an update on Wednesday.
It stated that the redesigning and issuance of new N200, N500, and N1000 notes by the Central Bank of Nigeria has resulted in cash shortages.
Citizens were advised to check that the notes provided by currency exchange vendors are valid for the duration of their trip to Nigeria.
As a result of cash shortages, there have been outbreaks of violence in some Southern states, with the risk that other urban areas across the country will be affected.
“We advise travellers in Nigeria to exercise their judgement, including being aware of any large crowds or potential disturbances,” the FCDO said.
The United Kingdom observed an increase in criminal activity and advised its citizens to take extra precautions, particularly when withdrawing cash in crowded areas and at night.
They were also warned not to travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, or Cross River States.
The FCDO advises against traveling to Bauchi, Kano, Jigawa, Niger, Sokoto, Kogi, Niger, Kebbi, Abia, Plateau, and Taraba States unless absolutely necessary.
The announcement of the online Health Declaration Form for incoming travelers by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control was also mentioned by the UK government.
According to the advice, movement restrictions may be imposed ahead of the general elections, and there is a higher risk of protests and violence.
