TRAVEL ADVISORY – NIGERIA
High Commission of Malaysia, Abuja
Date: 16 February 2026
Escalation of Security Incidents in Northern and North-Central Nigeria
(For Malaysians in Nigeria and Those Intending to Travel)
The High Commission of Malaysia in Abuja wishes to inform Malaysian nationals that a series of serious security incidents have recently occurred across parts of Northern and North-Central Nigeria.
In February 2026, several incidents were reported in Woro and Nuku communities in Kwara State, where multiple fatalities were recorded following armed attacks on local communities. These events were subsequently followed by the recent coordinated attacks in Kaduna State and an insurgent ambush in Borno State linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The sequence of incidents indicates a broader pattern of insecurity affecting multiple northern and north-central states rather than isolated occurrences.
Malaysians Currently in Nigeria - Malaysian citizens residing in or travelling within Nigeria are advised to:
- Avoid all non-essential travel to Borno State and surrounding areas affected by insurgent activities.
- Defer travel to rural or remote communities in Kwara State, Kaduna State, and parts of the North-West and North-Central regions where recent armed attacks have occurred.
- Exercise heightened caution when travelling by road, particularly on inter-state highways.
- Avoid night travel outside major urban centres.
- Remain vigilant and monitor developments through reliable local sources.
- Ensure passports, visas, and emergency contacts are up to date.
- Register with the High Commission of Malaysia in Abuja if not already registered.
Malaysians Intending to Travel to Nigeria - Malaysians planning travel to Nigeria are strongly advised to:
- Reconsider non-essential travel to Northern Nigeria, particularly Borno State.
- Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Kwara State, Kaduna State, and surrounding North-Central and North-West regions.
- Avoid travel to remote communities without adequate security arrangements.
- Seek security briefings from host organisations or local contacts prior to travel.
- Ensure comprehensive travel insurance and maintain flexible itineraries.
General Advisory
While major urban centres such as Abuja and Lagos continue to function with visible security presence, the recent incidents underscore the need for sustained vigilance nationwide. Malaysians are advised to:
- Avoid large gatherings and politically sensitive events.
- Remain alert in markets, transport hubs, and public venues.
- Cooperate with Nigerian security authorities and comply with official advisories.
The High Commission of Malaysia in Abuja will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.
For consular assistance, Malaysians may contact:
High Commission of Malaysia, Abuja
[Office number: +234-209 290 8488]
[Duty officer: +234-703 136 5197]
[mwabuja@kln.gov.my or abj.abuja@kln.gov.my]