Is Lagos Safe for Tourists in 2026?

Unlicensed motorcycle taxis (okadas) and unmarked private cars operating as taxis in Lagos have been used to carry out express kidnappings, where victims are driven to ATMs and forced to withdraw cash. Incidents are most common at night in areas including Victoria Island and Surulere, and often follow a victim being followed from a bar or hotel lobby. Perpetrators sometimes pose as legitimate ride-hail drivers with spoofed apps or printed logos.

How to avoid: Only use verified rides booked through the official Bolt or Uber app and confirm the driver photo and plate before entering. Avoid hailing any vehicle from the street at night, and never share your destination out loud in a public area before getting in.

Where: Victoria Island bar strip along Adeola Odeku Street, hotel taxi ranks on Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, and late-night Surulere streets near National Stadium

At slow-moving traffic intersections and car windows throughout Lagos — particularly along Carter Bridge, Apongbon, and the Oshodi interchange — motorbike riders (sometimes called "one chance" operators) reach through open windows or grab items from pedestrians. Visible gold necklaces, hanging phones, and watches are the primary targets. The speed of the motorbike makes pursuit impossible. This is an opportunistic street crime that peaks during rush-hour gridlock.

How to avoid: Keep windows rolled up in Lagos traffic. Never use your phone visibly at a car window or while walking near heavy traffic. Remove jewellery before entering congested areas. Pedestrians should walk facing oncoming traffic and keep bags on the side away from the road.

Where: Carter Bridge and Apongbon roundabout; Oshodi–Mushin bridge interchange; Balogun Market perimeter roads; Mile 2 bus terminal approaches.

Individuals at Murtala Muhammed Airport pose as hotel or car service representatives, collecting luggage and passengers before demanding inflated fees or stranding them elsewhere.

How to avoid: Pre-arrange all airport transfers with your hotel or a verified service. Confirm your driver's name and vehicle details in advance. Do not approach unmarked drivers.

Where: International and domestic arrivals halls at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, particularly the waiting area outside arrivals gates and the car park approach road

Men claiming to be NAFDAC, customs, or immigration officers approach tourists and businesspeople, claiming documents are irregular and demanding fines paid in cash to avoid arrest. The arrest threat is fabricated.

How to avoid: Ask for official ID and badge number. Insist on going to the official government office. Contact your embassy immediately. Never pay cash to any official demanding payment on the street or without an official receipt.

Where: At Murtala Muhammed International Airport particularly near the customs and immigration exits, in the business districts of Victoria Island and Ikoyi, and along major roads near the Tinubu Square area of Lagos Island