Travel to Nigeria (Lagos and Warri)?

[MaryBear]

Does anyone know anything about whether this is advisable? I know a woman who has been communicating for months with a man in Nigeria and wants to visit there/him. She has received many suggestions that this visit would be a bad idea, and quite possibly very dangerous for her. Still, she wants to go, not only to meet this man, but to visit Africa. Are the cautions against travel legitimate? Anyone have positive or other info or opinions?

[Liberal In Texas]

1. From the US State Dept. Warnings:

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the dangers of travel to Nigeria. Conditions in Nigeria pose considerable risks to travelers.

Violent crime committed by ordinary criminals, as well as by persons in police and military uniforms, can occur throughout the country. Kidnapping for ransom of persons associated with the petroleum sector, including U.S. citizens, remains common in the Niger Delta area.

Religious tension between some Muslim and Christian communities results in occasional acts of isolated communal violence that could erupt quickly and without warning. The states of Kano and Kaduna are particularly volatile. Rival ethnic groups have clashed violently in the Niger Delta region around Warri city and in Southeast Plateau State.

Periodically, travel by U.S. mission personnel is restricted based on changing security conditions. U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos for up-to-date information on these restrictions.

Use of public transportation throughout Nigeria can be dangerous and should be avoided. Taxis pose risks because of the possibility of fraudulent or criminal operators, old and unsafe vehicles, and poorly maintained roads. Most Nigerian airlines have aging fleets, and maintenance and operational procedures may be inadequate to ensure passenger safety.

-ummm don't go.

[MaryBear]

2. Her friend claims it is not that bad.

Anyone have direct experience?

[Liberal In Texas]

4. Did you read that State Department warning?

It's not that bad?

She sounds determined to go. She's nuts if she does.

This isn't the US or europe anymore, this is third world violence and if you-are-western, you're-dead kind of stuff.

She should spend her money on getting her lover here.

Rent The Year of Living Dangerously, Midnight Express and similar movies.

[MaryBear]

5. I am very concerned.

I wish it could be what she wants the experience to be, and yet I am very concerned.

I notice very little response to this thread == and none of it positive.

Kicking in hopes of more DU'ers responding.

:kick:

[foo_bar]

10. travel advisories are the least of it

The reality: Before the popularity of email, Nigerian 419 scams were originally sent over fax machines and by snail mail. Those who have contacted the scammers are presented with many forged or official documents in an attempt to convince the victims that the promise of money is legit. Meantime, they claim fees must be paid and accounts must be setup. All this money is at the victim's expense. Loss of your own funds is the easy part. Some who have responded to Nigerian 419 scams have become victims of kidnapping and murder.

http://antivirus.about.com/od/emailhoaxes/p/nigerian419.htm

[BigMcLargehuge]

3. this guy does have personal experience

http://www.comebackalive.com/df/dplaces/nigeria/index.htm

[alfredo]

6. No No No. DO NOT Go there!!

It is one of the most corrupt places on earth. Their two top industries are oil and ripping off gullible "euros." Even if that guy is on the level, Nigeria is not a nice place to visit.

There are much better place to visit in Africa. East Africa is much nicer, the climate is better, and they are used to tourist. But still no matter where you go you will run across someone running a game. You have to be aware, you have to have street smarts, you have to know how to say no.

Tell her to go to Italy or the south of France.

Africa is not for the amateur.

[MaryBear]

7. She turned in her tickets.

She is not going.

:party: :applause: :woohoo: :thumbsup: :beer: :7

[cally]

8. I'm glad she decided not to go

I have no direct knowledge because I wouldn't travel to Nigeria. It's too dangerous.

[proud patriot]

9. Thank Goodness

The only way I'd go would be with a bunch of
trusted people traveling together .

[noiretextatique]

11. i can ask some folks i know

but most of my friends have been to west africa lately.