The UK and Australian governments have updated their travel advisories with new security warnings for anyone planning to travel to or already present in Nigeria ahead of the general elections scheduled for February.

There is a strong likelihood that violence would break out during political gatherings, the Australian government informed its citizens.

“Nigeria is scheduled to hold national and state elections between 25 February and 11 March. The risk of election related violence is high. You should avoid all political gatherings and election related sites in the lead up to, during and after this period,” said a statement by the Australian government updated January 19.

For those intending to visit, the foreign government urged them to “reconsider your need to travel,” stressing that “we’ve reviewed our travel advice for Nigeria and now advise ‘reconsider your need to travel’ to Abuja,” adding that “we continue to advise ‘reconsider your need to travel’ to Nigeria.”

“Higher levels apply,” the statement stressed.

The UK government had also acknowledged increased risks of demonstrations during the election season.

“Nationwide elections will take place in Nigeria in February 2023, and there is a heightened risk of protests during this period,” said the UK government.

It added, “Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can occur with little notice throughout the country. International news events can sometimes trigger anti-Western demonstrations.”