The United Kingdom, through its Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has issued safety advisories to its citizens in Nigeria and those travelling into Nigeria following the Central Bank of Nigeria naira redesign policy.

In its updated advisories on Wednesday, the country urged its citizens in Nigeria and those travelling into the country to take extra precautions around banks and Automated Teller Machines.

This is as the United Kingdom government also informed her citizens of the coming general elections in Nigeria, warning them of possible pockets of violence in some parts of the country.

The updated advisories read that around 117,000 British tourists visit Nigeria every year, most visits being trouble-free, but a small number of British people encounter problems and that they should take sensible precautions to protect their safety.

Further stating that nationwide elections will take place in Nigeria on 25 February and 11 March 2023, movement restrictions may be enforced during this period, especially on election days, and there is a heightened risk of protests and violence. The Central Bank of Nigeria has directed the redesign and issue of new N200, N500 and N1000 Naira notes. This has led to shortages of cash, which are likely to persist for a period an they are encouraged to check notes provided by currency exchange vendors will be valid for the duration of your travel to Nigeria, and to follow local CBN guidelines.

Saying that areas such as banks and ATMs have seen a spike in criminal activity, and as such, it is advised that they take extra precautions, particularly when withdrawing cash in crowded spaces, and during nighttime hours.
They advise travelers in Nigeria to exercise their judgement, including being aware of any large crowds or potential disturbances.