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Tag: travel

  • Check thirteen safety tips when embarking on water travels

    Check thirteen safety tips when embarking on water travels

    Following the spate of water accidents and the recent unfortunate one that claimed the life of a renowned actor, Junior Pope while enroute to a movie location, it’s imperative to relate safety tips while embarking on water travels.

    Check out safety tips while embarking on water travels.

    High Winds: Do not embark on water travels when there is high wind. High windy conditions can affect the direction and stability of the boat.

    Check Boat Conditions: Ensure that you properly check the boat conditions to be able to know if it’s in perfect order before embarking on water travels.

    Equip Yourself with Navigation tools: Ensure you have navigation tools such as GPS device, binoculars for scanning the horizon and identifying any potential hazard.

    Wear life jackets: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket when onboard a boat. Ensure that there are enough life jackets for all passengers.

    Check weather conditions: Before setting off, check weather forecasts to avoid sailing in rough or dangerous conditions that could jeopardise safety.

    Follow safety instructions: Listen attentively to the boat operator or captain’s safety instructions and adhere to them diligently. Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and the location of safety equipment onboard.

    Avoid overloading: Do not exceed the boat’s weight capacity or passenger limit. Overloading can lead to instability and increase the risk of accidents.

    Ensure proper boat maintenance: Regularly maintain the boat, including checking navigation lights, signaling devices, and emergency equipment like fire extinguishers and flares.

    Inform others: Let someone know your boating plans, including your route and estimated return time. This information can be crucial in case of an emergency.

    Be mindful of water conditions: Stay aware of water currents, tides, and potential hazards such as rocks or shallow areas. Navigate at safe speeds and exercise caution near shorelines.

    Monitor fuel levels: Always carry sufficient fuel for your trip and monitor fuel levels regularly. Running out of fuel in open water can be hazardous.

    Ensure children’s safety: Ensure that children wear life jackets and are supervised by adults at all times while onboard. Also, educate them about basic boating safety rules.

    Avoid alcohol and intoxicants: It’s crucial to refrain from consuming alcohol or other intoxicants before or during boat rides. Being sober enables you to make sound decisions and stay alert to potential dangers.

  • Despite surging FX Nigerians studying in US hit 22% in one year – Report

    Despite surging FX Nigerians studying in US hit 22% in one year – Report

    The number of Nigerians studying in the United States of America rose by 22.2 percent within one year, despite the scarcity of foreign exchange, which has made tuition fees more expensive.

    Data from the new Open Doors Report, published by the Washington-based Institute of International Education (IIE) on Monday, show that enrolment from Nigeria increased to 17,640 in the 2022/23 academic year from 14,438 in the previous year hit 17,640 in 2022/23 academic year

    It said the US hosted 1.06 million international students during the academic year, a 12 percent increase compared to the previous academic year. “It is the fastest growth rate in more than 40 years.”

    The report also revealed that Nigeria was the only African country among the top 10 countries with the highest number of students in America, while China (289,526), India (268,928), South Korea (43,847), Canada (27,876) and Vietnam (21,900) are the top five countries.

  • Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Top Winter Sports Destinations in Finland

    Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Top Winter Sports Destinations in Finland

    Finland, a land of enchanting landscapes and winter wonder, beckons adrenaline enthusiasts with a plethora of heart-pounding winter sports. From skiing down pristine slopes to scaling icy cliffs, this Nordic haven offers an array of activities that cater to the adventurous spirit. For those seeking an adrenaline fix amidst stunning natural surroundings, Finland travel packages and Finland city breaks present an ideal opportunity. In this article, we unveil the top winter sports destinations in Finland, each offering its own unique blend of excitement and breathtaking beauty, complemented by relevant statistics and research findings.

    Ruka-Kuusamo: A Winter Playground Ruka-Kuusamo, nestled in the heart of Finland’s Lapland region, is a winter playground that caters to all manner of thrill seekers. With an average of 400,000 visitors each winter season, it’s a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Finland travel packages often include this gem, allowing visitors to experience everything from downhill skiing to snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and even snowmobiling. Research findings suggest a consistent rise in winter tourism to this region, with a 15% increase in visits over the past three years. Engage in heart-pounding activities during the day and unwind beneath the Northern Lights in the evenings.

    Levi: Where Adventure Awaits

    Levi, another Lapland gem, offers an adventure-packed winter sports experience that caters to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. This resort town boasts over 230,000 annual visitors, reflecting its popularity among those seeking an adrenaline rush. Finland travel packages often include Levi due to its diverse offerings, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice-fishing, and even husky sledding. Research findings indicate that Levi has seen a steady growth in winter tourism, with a 10% increase in international visitors over the last two years. Experience the thrill of night skiing under the Arctic sky and embrace the magic of the polar night.

    Ylläs: A Haven for Snow Lovers

    Ylläs, a winter wonderland set against a backdrop of pristine forests and glistening snow, is a haven for snow enthusiasts. With over 330,000 visitors annually, it’s clear that Ylläs holds a special place in the hearts of winter sports aficionados. Finland travel packages often include Ylläs due to its extensive network of cross-country skiing trails and alpine slopes. Research findings suggest a consistent demand for Ylläs experiences, with a 20% increase in bookings for snow-based activities over the past

    three years. Engage in exhilarating snowboarding, or snowshoeing, or explore the Arctic wilderness by snowmobile.

    Pyhä-Luosto: An Arctic Adventure

    Pyhä-Luosto, nestled within the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, offers an Arctic adventure that’s both invigorating and awe-inspiring. With approximately 150,000 annual visitors, this destination’s popularity is on the rise. Finland travel packages often feature Pyhä-Luosto, allowing visitors to experience ice-climbing, snowshoeing, and even ice fishing. Research findings indicate a growing interest in Pyhä-Luosto’s winter offerings, with a 10% increase in winter tourists over the last two years. Scale frozen waterfalls, traverse snowy landscapes, and witness the beauty of the Northern Lights dancing above.

    Tahko: Alpine Thrills and Frozen Lakes

    Tahko, located in the Lakeland region, offers a unique blend of alpine thrills and frozen lake adventures. This picturesque destination attracts around 250,000 visitors annually, signifying its appeal to winter sports enthusiasts. Finland travel packages often include Tahko due to its diverse offerings, from skiing and snowboarding to ice-skating and ice-karting on frozen lakes. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Tahko, with a 15% increase in winter tourism over the past three years. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Finnish winter landscape while experiencing the rush of high-speed activities.

    Vuokatti: Where Snow and Sport Converge

    Vuokatti, known for its excellent snow conditions and comprehensive sports facilities, is a hub for winter athletes of all levels. With over 200,000 annual visitors, it’s clear that Vuokatti’s charm extends beyond its borders. Finland travel packages often include Vuokatti due to its extensive range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, and even biathlon training. Research findings indicate a growing trend in winter tourism to Vuokatti, with a 10% increase in international visitors over the past two years. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities during the day and unwind at spa resorts in the evenings.

    Ounasvaara: Arctic Adventures and Aurora Quests

    Ounasvaara, situated in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers Arctic adventures intertwined with the quest to witness the Northern Lights. This destination sees around 300,000 visitors annually, showcasing its allure for those seeking a winter adrenaline rush. Finland travel packages often include Ounasvaara due to its mix of skiing, snowboarding, and the promise of catching the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Ounasvaara’s winter offerings, with a 15% increase in tourists over the past three years.

    Rovaniemi: Arctic Playground and Santa’s Home

    Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and famously known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, is an Arctic playground that offers winter sports enthusiasts a unique blend of adventure and holiday magic. With an annual influx of around 500,000 visitors, Rovaniemi’s popularity is evident in its appeal to families and adventurers alike. Finland travel packages often include Rovaniemi due to its diverse offerings, from snowboarding and skiing to snowmobiling and reindeer sleigh rides. Research findings indicate a consistent rise in winter tourism to Rovaniemi, with a 10% increase in visitors over the past three years. Immerse yourself in the thrill of winter sports during the day and delight in enchanting Northern Lights quests by night, creating cherished memories for all ages.

    Salla: A Wilderness Haven for Extreme Sports

    Salla, situated near the Russian border, offers extreme sports enthusiasts a wilderness haven for embracing the winter’s raw beauty. With an annual visitor count of approximately 50,000, Salla’s allure lies in its off-the-beaten-path appeal for adventure seekers. Finland travel packages often feature Salla, catering to those who crave snowboarding, snowkiting, and ice climbing in untamed surroundings. Research findings suggest a growing trend in winter tourism to Salla, with a 10% increase in the number of visitors over the past two years. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities amidst vast snowy landscapes and savour the pristine wilderness that defines Salla’s charm.

    Koli National Park: Nordic Skiing and Breathtaking Views

    Koli National Park, located in eastern Finland, offers Nordic skiing enthusiasts a breathtaking winter sports experience amid stunning landscapes. With around 100,000 visitors annually, Koli is a destination of choice for those seeking cross-country skiing adventures. Finland travel packages often include Koli due to its serene beauty and well-maintained ski trails that wind through snowy forests and offer panoramic views over frozen lakes. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Koli’s winter offerings, with a 15% increase in visitors over the past three years. Traverse the trails of Koli National Park, relishing the harmony between physical activity and the splendour of the natural world.

    Conclusion

    Finland’s winter sports destinations are a testament to the country’s commitment to providing exhilarating adventures against the backdrop of stunning Arctic landscapes. The statistics and research findings underscore the global appeal of these destinations, demonstrating the enduring popularity of Finland’s winter sports offerings. Whether you’re conquering untamed slopes in Salla, embracing the Arctic

    magic of Rovaniemi, or Nordic skiing through Koli’s picturesque trails, each winter sports destination offers a unique blend of excitement and natural beauty.

    As you navigate the snowy terrains and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities, you become an integral part of Finland’s winter narrative, where the thrill of adventure harmonizes with the serenity of the landscape. Choose from a variety of Finland travel packages and city breaks that align with your winter sports preferences, and embark on an unforgettable journey that invigorates the spirit and renews your connection with nature’s wonders.

  • Terrorism: UK advises nationals against non-essential travel to Abuja

    Terrorism: UK advises nationals against non-essential travel to Abuja

    The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has advised British nationals against non-essential travels to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja over threats of possible terrorist attack.

    The Updated FCDO’s travel Advisory of Oct. 26 was made available to newsmen by the British High Commission in Abuja on Thursday.

    The British High Commission in Abuja stated that it remained open for essential services.

    The advisory stated: “The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice on 26 October to British nationals.

    “The FCDO now advises against all but essential travel to the Federal Capital Territory, including the city of Abuja.

    “The updated advice outlines that there is an increased threat of terrorist attack in Abuja. British nationals are advised to stay alert, avoid non-essential travel within the city, and follow the local news and the advice of security authorities.

    “The British High Commission remains open for essential services. The travel advice will constantly be reviewed to make sure it reflects the current situation in Abuja and Nigeria.

    “FCDO travel advice exists to inform British nationals so they can make decisions about travelling abroad.

    “Other states in Nigeria where we advise against all but essential travel include Bauchi, Kano, Jigawa, Niger, Sokoto, Kogi, Abia, Plateau, Taraba, within 20km of the border with Niger in Kebbi State and non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers States.

    “For more information about the FCDO’s travel Advice for Nigeria, visit:  Nigeria travel advice – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

    “You can stay up to date with the latest changes to our travel advice for Nigeria by signing up to our email travel advice alerts here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/about-foreign-commonwealth-development-office-travel-advice”.

  • FG lifts pre-travel testing for vaccinated Nigerians, visitors

    FG lifts pre-travel testing for vaccinated Nigerians, visitors

    The Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19 has lifted per travel testing requirements for COVID-19 vaccinated Nigerians and visitors.

    Mr Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman PSC on COVID-19, on Monday in Abuja, said that the revised International Travel Protocols, would take effect from April 4, 2022.

    Nigeria joined other countries in adjusting its COVID-19 regulations.

    Some leaders are keeping some restrictions on travel and gatherings, while other countries are easing their restrictions.

    The World Health Organization has urged countries to follow science rather than imposing flight bans in a bid to contain the new Omicron coronavirus variant.

    According to Mustapha, In-bound (fully vaccinated) passengers arriving in Nigeria will no longer be required to take a pre-departure PCR COVID-19 Test.

    He said that on arrival, for fully vaccinated passengers, a sample would be taken at the airport for rapid antigen test by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC ), within the arrival hall of all the country’s point of entries and airports.

    “Passengers who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated shall take a COVID-19 PCR test 48 hours before departure, or do a Day 2 and day 7 test on arrival. Such passengers will be expected to pay for their PCR tests through the travel platform.

    “Fully vaccinated passengers will not be charged for arrival rapid antigen tests at the airport;

    “Rules that apply to fully vaccinated adults also apply to children aged 10 – 18 years; they will not be required to have pre-arrival PCR tests but will have a sample taken at the arrival hall but not charged.

    “All passengers travelling out of Nigeria are encouraged to be fully vaccinated and to fully comply with COVID-19 protocols and requirements in their country of destination,” he said.

    The SGF said that the PSC continues to strongly recommend the use of face masks in enclosed environments, adding that in open spaces, the use of face masks is discretional.

    The SGF disclosed that the country still has the National Response in place as it continue to monitor global trends and adapt them with the situation in country.

    He stressed that there had been a consistent decline in number of cases around the world but that does not give Nigerians the leverage to let their guards down yet.

    Mustapha said there were predictions of rebounds as seen in China, South Korea, Germany, Vietnam, France, and Hong Kong.

    “In fact, China has reintroduced lockdowns in some cities due to the spike in cases.

    “So far, the world has recorded over 471 million confirmed cases, 6 million deaths and over 11 billion vaccine doses administered, while in Nigeria, we have recorded 255,103 cases and 3,142 persons have died.

    “We have vaccinated over 20 million persons with at least the first dose. This number is not very encouraging, hence, the need for all eligible Nigerians to come out and be vaccinated,” he stated.

    He disclosed that the Port Health Services have so far screened about 2,357 Nigerians evacuated from Ukraine for COVID-19 out of the over 8,000 residents or students living in Ukraine.

    He said that out of these passengers, 193 tested positive to COVID-19 and were managed according to the country’s protocols.

    He warned Nigerians to be mindful of scammers especially in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, who come to assist them in accessing the NITP and in the process, register them as children to avoid paying post arrival test.

    According to him, the PSC wishes to put Nigerians on notice that two major religious festivities (Easter and Sallah) are approaching and we shall be experiencing increased passenger traffic in and out of the country.

    “While the PSC prepares to escalate surveillance and other control activities, we urge the States and all Nigerians to also increase their vigilance and take measures to moderate activities.

  • FACT CHECK: Is the Ghanaian passport equivalent to an e-passport?

    FACT CHECK: Is the Ghanaian passport equivalent to an e-passport?

    By Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu

    The social media has been awash with information that the Ghanaian national identification card commonly known as the ‘Ghana Card’, has been endorsed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a valid e-passport.

    The information which added that holders of the Ghana Card will now be able to travel across about 197 borders and 44,000 airports throughout the world, gained traction owing to the fact that it was also corroborated by the official twitter handle of the Ghanaian presidency – @GhanaPresidency.

    “I am happy to report that following a ‘Key Ceremony’ at the headquarters of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (@icao) in Montreal Canada, Ghana’s National Identity Card (the #GhanaCard) will now be duly recognized globally as a valid e-passport/ID card,” the tweet by the presidency read.

    HOW TRUE IS THIS CLAIM?

    Last week, ICAO organized a ceremony to welcome Ghana into the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD), which is a central repository needed to verify and authenticate biographic and biometric information on international travel documents such as digital passports, electronic ID cards and visible digital seals.

    The ceremony that took place at the ICAO headquarters in Montreal, Canada, was subsequently interpreted to mean that the Ghana Card had been approved as a travel document equivalent to a biometric passport.

    However, the ICAO has now clarified that although the ceremony which took place on 9th February was a major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to provide for more international acceptance of its electronic travel documents, media reports claiming that the Ghana Card is equivalent to an e-passport were incorrect.

    “It is not the ICAO’s role to certify the use of a State’s Identity Card for international travel in place of a passport. It is the sovereign right if each individual State to decide upon its entry and exist requirements and the documents that need to be presented by those travelling to and/or from its territory.

    “A number of States worldwide accept specified national ID cards as identity documents during air travel based on bilateral agreement between issuing and receiving states. Any decision to accept such alternative travel identity documents is made by the receiving State itself,” the ICAO has stated.

    VERDICT

    The claim that the Ghana Card has been endorsed by the ICAO to serve as an e-passport is false, misleading, and should be disregarded by the public.

  • BREAKING: Travel nightmare continues as airlines cancel 2,500 more flights

    BREAKING: Travel nightmare continues as airlines cancel 2,500 more flights

    A total number of more 2,500 flights were cancelled on Tuesday, and another 5,100 were delayed as air travellers continue to suffer air traffic nightmares across the globe.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the cancellation adds to thousands of flights that have been cancelled in the last few days.

    Air traffic tracking website, FlightAware released these shocking flight cancellation details, revealing Monday was an even bigger nightmare for travellers, with more than 2,800 flights cancelled, and 11,000 delayed.

    Globally, airlines cancelled more than 6,000 flights on Christmas Eve, Christmas and the day after Christmas. In the United States, more than 1,200 flights were cancelled and more than 5,000 were delayed on Sunday alone as staff and crew called out sick.

    The cancellations come at the busiest time of year for air travel. The US Transportation Security Administration said it screened millions of people each day over the holiday weekend, peaking at 2.19 million travellers on Thursday, December 23. On Wednesday, more people passed through TSA checkpoints than on the same day in 2019.

    Saturday, air travel was a bit slower because of the flight cancellations: More than 1.53 million people passed through security checkpoints Saturday.

    United Airlines (UAL) said last week it had to cancel hundreds of flights because it lacked enough crew members to safely fly all of its scheduled routes.

    “The nationwide spike in Omicron cases this week has had a direct impact on our flight crews and the people who run our operation,” said a United memo obtained by CNN.

    Delta said it was working to get all stranded travellers home as quickly as possible.

    “We apologize to our customers for the delay in their holiday travel plans,” Delta said in a statement. “Delta people are working hard to get them to where they need to be as quickly and as safely as possible on the next available flight.”

    European airlines are also experiencing a small number of cancellations amid record-breaking numbers of Covid-19 cases in several European nations.

    German airline Lufthansa said it will cancel 10% of its winter flight schedule as the pandemic continues to hit the aviation industry.

  • Presidency speaks on reports of Buhari’s alleged air mishap

    Presidency speaks on reports of Buhari’s alleged air mishap

    The Presidential spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina has described as fake, reports that the aircraft in which President Muhammadu Buhari recently travelled to the United States developed fault mid-air and that the president escaped narrowly.

    Adesina described the reports published on some online platforms as an example of fake news that has become a major vice and threat to information dissemination in the country.

    “It didn’t happen. I was on that flight. We took off from New York, went straight to Santa Maria in Portugal where we refuelled. We took off again and flew straight to Nigeria.

    “Where is the mishap? It is a lie it never happened. Do you know the number of people that have been misled by this fake news?

    “Fake news is a problem not only to Nigeria but to the whole world. The traditional media should be careful of fake news because we must first have a country before digital media can be useful to us.

    “We must not allow digital media to be used to destroy our country. Digital media is good but there is evil embedded in it.” Adesina said.

    The presidential spokesman, who said he has been a victim of fake news on many occasions, spoke in Abuja on Friday at the public presentation of a book, “101 fake news on EndSARS,” a publication of PRNigeria, authored by a journalist, Dahiru Lawal.

    Adesina, who cited instances where his views were misrepresented by purveyors of fake news, expressed disappointment that members of the Yoruba group, Afenifere allowed themselves to be misled by fake news about his recent comparison between Buhari and some past political leaders.

    He said the traditional media and professional journalists must be more careful because the digital media appears to be dictating the pace and the traditional media now rely on them.

    Adesina, who noted that fake news was instrumental to the EndSARS protest and the massive destruction witnessed, said the problem would be more pronounced as the 2023 general elections draw close.

  • Why we have strict travel protocols in Nigeria – FG

    Why we have strict travel protocols in Nigeria – FG

    The Federal Government says its strict travel protocols are put in place to protect its citizens from being infected by COVID-19 pandemic.

    The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, made this known in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday.

    Mohammed said Nigeria had been tagged as a very strict country in terms of travel protocols, explaining that the stand of the government was to protect its people against the spread of the virus.

    “We have been accused that our rules are being stringent. We say no. We are not being tough for toughness sake. We are being tough because that is what science demands. We are tough because we want to protect our people.

    “This is why you will see that the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) has designated and ranked different parts of the globe where the Delta variant is prevalent or the very high risk of contracting COVID-19.

    “We have labeled them restricted countries. As of today we have only four of such; South Africa, India, Brazil and Turkey. And there are strict travel protocols around these countries because we want to prevent and protect our people.

    “The first instance, nationals of these countries are not allowed into Nigeria. If you are a Brazilian and you are coming from Brazil and Indian coming from India, a South African coming from South Africa or Turkish coming from Turkey.

    “It doesn’t mean a Brazilian living in London cannot come, you can come if you are coming from London. And also, not everybody coming from these countries are banned, we make exemptions; diplomats are exempted, high level government officials, those coming to fix our infrastructure and economy are exempted by PSC.

    “But no matter what category whether a Nigerian coming from Turkey or you are exempted for whatever you are coming to do in Nigeria but you must observe the travel protocols which means you check in straight into a quarantined facility approved by the Federal Government.

    “And when you are there, your health is monitored constantly, day two of your arrival, you will do a COVID-19 test, do another one day seven, it is only after you are tested negative at day seven that you are allowed to go home and meet your relations.

    “However those who are coming from non-restricted countries, also have their own protocols to observe, one, they must self-isolate in their respective homes and two, day seven, they must come out and do a test before they are being discharged,” he explained.

    The minister said regrettably, many people who came in from non-restricted countries did not observe self-isolation and even when they did they thought it was an occasion to invite friends and relations.

    “It is a dangerous practice. Those doing that are endangering their lives, the lives of their friends and relations.

    “If you have taken the two doses of your AstraZeneca or new Moderna, they will not prevent you from catching COVID-19 again, the only advantage you have, if you catch it after you took the vaccine, you won’t be terribly sick, you may not even notice it, you won’t be hospitalised and you will not die of COVID-19.

    “If someone comes in from a country like India for instance even if he is vaccinated and he meets a Nigerian who has been vaccinated, that Nigerian can still catch it because you need to have vaccinated at least 70 per cent of your population.

    “It is when you have vaccinated 70 per cent of your population before you can achieve what they call herd immunity. Here we are still struggling with two per cent vaccination.

    “So that is why we put what looks like tough travel protocols around most restricted and non-restricted countries.”

    Mohammed, however, noted that this list was not final and any country Nigeria noticed that COVID-19 or delta variant was becoming endemic such country would be added to the list because it was all about safety of lives of the citizens.

  • Don’t go to Nigeria, Canada warns its citizens; raises security alarm

    Don’t go to Nigeria, Canada warns its citizens; raises security alarm

    The Canadian government has warned its citizens not to travel to Nigeria, citing strong security concerns. in a fresh travel advisory it warned its citizens against non-essential’ travels to Nigeria due to the high level of insecurity and crime in the country.

    Canadians who happened to be in Nigeria were advised to exercise a ‘high degree of caution.

    The travel advisory on Nigeria, issued on February 16, 2021, was rated as ‘Still Valid’ on February 21, 2021.

    In the travel advisory shared on travel.gc.ca, a website of the Canadian government, Canadians were advised to “avoid non-essential travel to Nigeria due to the unpredictable security situation throughout the country and the significant risk of terrorism, crime, inter-communal clashes, armed attacks and kidnappings.”

    But the Canadian authorities specifically warned the country’s nationals to “avoid all travel” to some parts of Nigeria, particularly the North-Western states of Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara, as well as well as the North-Eastern states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa and Yobe.

    Other states Canadians were advised to avoid in Nigeria included Plateau, in the North-Central, and Niger Delta states – Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers.

    Two South-Eastern states – Imo and Anambra – were equally classified as ‘no go’ areas for Canadians in Nigeria.

    The travel advisory noted that acts of terrorism and kidnapping were likely to occur in Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa and Yobe states.