Is It Safe to Travel to Northern Nigeria in 2025?

With insecurity, banditry, and insurgency Is It Safe to Travel to Northern Nigeria in 2025?

Between Headlines and Hometowns

lets start with telling ourselves the true like any and every other part of Nigeria, Northern Nigeria, a region steeped in culture, history, and raw beauty, has been at the center of one of Nigeria’s most persistent travel questions: “Is it safe to go there?” which the answer will likely be yes, In 2025, this question continues to dominate online searches and travel forums.

As our reporter have it that, from the ancient city walls of Kano to the spectacular rock formations of Zamfara,we notice that the North has long been an overlooked gem of African tourism. But now we are going to rewrite those things the headlines rarely talk about heritage like they never exit in the first place; instead, they speak of banditry, insurgency, and kidnappings.

So, is Northern Nigeria really a no-go zone in 2025? Or are some parts still open for safe and rewarding exploration? Let’s examine the facts.

What You Should Know: A Region, Not a Monolith

According to some of our sources Northern Nigeria comprises 19 states, stretching from Benue in the Middle Belt to Borno in the far Northeast. To paint the entire region with one brush is to misunderstand its complex diversity, both in security and in hospitality.

For travelers and locals alike, it’s important to understand the nuanced risk level of each area, and not rely solely on headlines or hearsay.

ALSO READ

Should I travel to Nigeria? Nigerian Police and Tourist Harassment

Victor Osimhen New 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Worth ₦4.5 Billion

Nigeria Travel Advice & Safety

Breaking Down the North: State-by-State Safety Outlook

Relatively Safer Zones (Low-to-Moderate Risk)

Kano State

We noticed the following

• Current Outlook (2025): Though once under threat from insurgent attacks, Kano has largely stabilized.
• Why You Might Go: Emir’s Palace, ancient city walls, Kurmi Market.
• Caution: Avoid large political or religious gatherings; travel during daylight.
• Police Presence: Strong urban patrols and relatively responsive security forces.

Katsina State

We noticed the following

• Current Outlook: Urban Katsina is seeing improvements, although rural areas remain tense.
• Tourist Appeal: Historical architecture, traditional festivals.
• Note: Stick to central Katsina and coordinate with local guides.

Niger State (Middle Belt)

We noticed the following

• Tourist Highlight: Gurara Falls, Zuma Rock (bordering Abuja).
• Security Tips: Use Abuja as a base and avoid areas closer to Zamfara and Kaduna borders.

Unstable / Caution-Advised Zones (High Risk in Specific Areas)

Kaduna State

We noticed the following

• The Catch: A tourism paradox. Home to Kajuru Castle and Nok terracotta history, yet often volatile.
• Risks: Ongoing intercommunal conflicts and high-profile kidnappings along major highways.
• Safety Tip: Avoid southern Kaduna and Kaduna-Abuja road. Fly if possible.

Bauchi State

We noticed the following

• Potential: Yankari Game Reserve remains one of Nigeria’s top natural attractions.
• Challenge: Sporadic reports of attacks along access roads; vet tour operators carefully.
• Suggestion: Visit with trusted eco-tourism groups familiar with the terrain.

No-Go Zones (2025 Travel Advisory: Avoid All Non-Essential Travel)

Borno State

We noticed the following

• Status: Remains the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency. Despite military presence, attacks still occur.
• Capital (Maiduguri): Semi-safe in certain government-protected quarters but not worth the risk for tourists.
• Conclusion: Avoid entirely unless for verified humanitarian or security work.

Zamfara & Sokoto States

We noticed the following

• Reality Check: Banditry, mass abductions, and government-enforced mobile blackouts are still ongoing in parts of these states.
• Caution: These areas are not recommended for tourism under any circumstance in 2025.

What the Travel Advisories Say (Updated for 2025)

• U.S. State Department: Advises against all but essential travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Zamfara, and parts of Kaduna.
• UK FCDO: Recommends extreme caution even in states like Niger and Katsina.
• Canada & Australia: Issue blanket “Do Not Travel” advisories for the far North-East.

Important Note: Travel insurance is often voided in areas under “Do Not Travel” warnings. Always check policy details.

Should You Travel to the North at All?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no it’s a conditional maybe. If you’re visiting:

• For work or family consider flying into Abuja or Kano and keep local contacts close.
• As a diaspora tourist use organized tour services that offer armored transport and vetted accommodation.
• As a first-time tourist to Nigeria focus on safer regions like Lagos, Calabar, Jos, or Abeokuta first.

What Locals Say: Fear vs. Familiarity

Local Northerners often argue that media portrayals amplify fear.
“We live here every day, and while yes, we take precautions, it’s not as chaotic as outsiders think,” says Zainab Musa, a Kano-based entrepreneur.

However, even locals admit that traveling between cities especially by road is risky and should be avoided without proper planning and security intel.

Security Tips for Travelers in Northern Nigeria

1. Use Domestic Airlines: Air travel is more expensive but significantly safer.
2. Hire Local Guides: Preferably ones affiliated with licensed tour companies.
3. Avoid Night Travel: Especially between states or rural communities.
4. Stay Informed: Monitor local news, and join WhatsApp/Telegram alert groups for travelers.
5. Notify Embassies: Let your country’s consulate know your travel plans ahead of time.
6. Use Police Escort (if necessary): For high-risk areas, you can request escorts via state security agencies or licensed travel firms.

Opportunities in Crisis: The Future of Northern Tourism

Despite challenges, some Northern states are investing heavily in tourism revival:

• Kano is restoring its ancient city gates and museums.
• Bauchi is working with eco-tourism agencies to rebuild Yankari Reserve’s image.
• Plateau State, though Middle Belt, is fast becoming a mountain hiking and adventure tourism hotspot.

There’s cautious optimism that with the right security investments and rebranding, the North could reclaim its place on Nigeria’s tourism map.

Whatsnextng Conclusion: Is It Safe? Yes… But Only In Some Places

In 2025, Northern Nigeria is not a blanket war zone but it’s also not a carefree travel destination. Some areas like Kano, Katsina, and parts of Niger State offer authentic cultural experiences with manageable risk levels. Others, like Borno and Zamfara, should be avoided completely.

If you’re planning to travel to Northern Nigeria:

• Do your homework.
• Connect with locals.
• Prioritize safety over adventure.

The North has stories worth telling but only if you return to tell them.

FAQ: Northern Nigeria Travel Safety

Q: Can foreigners travel safely to Kano in 2025?
A: Yes, with caution. Stick to urban areas, avoid solo movements, and follow curfew regulations.

Q: Is Yankari Game Reserve safe now?
A: Semi-safe with guided group tours. Access roads are still considered risky.

Q: Are there safe hotels in Northern Nigeria?
A: Yes, in urban centers like Kano, Jos, and Bauchi. Stick with international or top-rated local brands.

Q: Can I visit Northern Nigeria as a solo female traveler?
A: Only in safer cities, and even then, using local fixers or guides is strongly advised.