Is Nigeria safe? It depends.
These are questions asked frequently: Is Nigeria safe? Do I need bodyguard services in Nigeria? Rumor has it that the West African country with over 200 million people (which makes it one of the most populated countries on the continent) has an extremely high crime rate. Kidnapping, terrorism, and scams are commonplace.
Travel advice websites of, for instance, the US will advise you to reconsider your travels altogether. Similarly, the Dutch government travel advice website shows an entirely orange and red colored map, indicating danger.
However, the UK website offers more nuanced advice. Besides ‘red’ (travel not recommended) and ‘orange’ (essential travel only), the map also shows some ‘green’ areas. The color green means you are advised to seek advice before traveling.
This is confusing, is it not?
The answer you receive depends on the one you ask. If you were to ask a foreigner who has never been to the country, they would probably dissuade you from traveling. He bases his judgment on the information obtained from the websites mentioned above. If you ask Nigerian citizens, they will be more likely to provide inside information. That is exactly what an internationally operating protection agency does. Investigate what safety professionals say about the country, including consulting partners.
You are wise to ask a security company offering executive protection in Nigeria about safety in a specific region, or city. They have the means and know-how to investigate if you run any risk in your position and your situation.
Discover how we help you with private security services in Nigeria.
This is why you should hire bodyguard services in Nigeria.
Although some national parks and lively major cities (such as Lagos and Abuja) are worth visiting, Nigeria is not a popular tourist destination for foreigners. However, the country has been of interest to international companies for many decades, regardless of the security challenges.
First and foremost, because of the natural resources. the country is rich in oil and gas. It is one of West Africa’s largest oil producers with substantial reserves. International oil companies and related industries have invested significantly in production and refining activities.
Also, the vast population offers foreign investors a market for their products and many business opportunities. The Nigerian work ethic is high, which leads to a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. As a result, the country has a diversified economy, including industries such as telecom, banking, agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
While Nigeria offers significant opportunities, the country also presents challenges such as political unrest, security concerns, corruption, and bureaucratic hurdles. If your company is interested in investing and operating there, we advise you to carefully assess the risks, conduct extensive market research, and develop a sound understanding of the local business environment.
Why is Nigeria dangerous?
Nigeria is divided into 36 states. This division is not only based on geographical but also on ethnic factors. The country has over 360 ethnic groups, which do not all see eye to eye. Therefore, it is complicated to rule over a country this large and diversified, which is exactly the reason for its risk challenges.
Safety concerns in Nigeria include:
- Various forms of criminal activity, including armed robbery, terrorist attacks, kidnapping, fraud, and cybercrime occur regularly in Nigeria. These crimes can occur in different regions and can affect both locals and foreigners.
- Nigeria has been grappling with the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeastern part of the country, particularly in states like Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa. Boko Haram displays similar terrorism as ISIS, seeking to establish an Islamic state. It has carried out numerous attacks, including bombings, abductions, and killings on communities.
- With over 350 ethnic groups and a roughly equal division between Christians and Muslims, the country copes with ethnic and religious tensions. Clashes and conflicts between groups over resources, religion, or politics have occasionally led to violence, particularly in central Nigeria.
- The Niger Delta region, known for its oil reserves, has experienced militancy and unrest due to, among others, disputes over resource control, environmental degradation, and economics. This has led to periodic attacks on oil facilities and kidnappings of foreign workers.
- Poverty, unemployment, and inequality also lead to social tensions and criminal activities.
What other services do we offer besides bodyguard services in Nigeria?
Infinite Risks International can provide you with several protective services in the West African region to increase your level of safety and comfort. This will prepare you well for your visit and offer you the personal assistance you require.
Investigative solutions
- We can assess your travel plans and investigate whether you may encounter any security issues based on your itinerary.
- When you aim to hire personnel, screen staff members, or potential business partners, we can screen these people for you.
- Doing business with a company you do not really know? Consider letting us do a due diligence investigation.
Technical solutions
- We can provide you with a 24/7 panic button or GPS tracking device for personnel security without invading their privacy.
- This will feel extra comfortable when you require medical assistance and road service assistance.
- Further technical security assistance could include an alarm system or a CCTV system.
Personal security
Personal security services can be carried out by licensed and screened professional bodyguards and local forces, who can accompany you to throughout Nigeria.
- VIP protection and personal bodyguard services in Nigeria.
- Patrol services and residential security teams.
- Security drivers and armored vehicles.
- Maritime security forces
- Armed escort services.
More information about our private security in Nigeria
Once we know the purpose of your business in Nigeria, West Africa, we assess the risks you may run under various circumstances. This way, we can anticipate every step you take and keep you comfortable, safe and secure at all times.
We are a professional security company from the Netherlands with a vast and reliable global network.
Our skilled and professional bodyguards are predominantly Nigerian, Dutch, British, and US trained and vetted close protection officers from elite military and law enforcement units. We vet our personal security guards, trained security drivers and armed guards strictly. Our VIP security officers speak at least two languages and are uniquely skilled in, e.g., advanced security driving, trauma medical aid, low profile protection and surveillance detection.
We are highly experienced in keeping our clients safe while they travel to and in Africa. Please contact us for more information about our secure transportation, executive protection services, armed escorts, VIP security solutions or if you would like to hire a bodyguard in Nigeria. We look forward to helping you out.
