Other Tourist Scams in Lagos, Nigeria
Timeshares, fake police, charity fraud, and miscellaneous scams targeting visitors. Below are the other scams scams reported in Lagos — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Mombasa.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
5
Other Scams Scams
10
Total in Lagos
How it works
Tourists and business visitors in Lagos are targeted with elaborate schemes promising large financial returns in exchange for upfront fees — for "government contracts," stranded inheritance, or business partnerships. Victims lose thousands before realizing it is a scam.
How it works
Strangers contact or approach tourists with elaborate business opportunities — gold export, contract facilitation, government funds — requiring upfront payments. This is the original 419 advance fee fraud.
How it works
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 it works
Salesmen approach tourists in hotel areas offering to sell gold nuggets, diamonds, or oil contracts at below-market prices. The "gold" is invariably brass or painted metal.
How it works
Police or military at road checkpoints may demand unofficial payments ("settlement") from tourist vehicles, particularly outside the central districts.
See all scams in Lagos
10 total warnings across all categories