The High Commission of India wishes to point out that in the recent past, some parts of Nigeria have witnessed an increase in terrorist related violence. Most of the attacks have occured in the North Eastern region of the country, particularly in Borno (including central Maiduguri and along access routes connecting the city to other major towns), Yobe, Adamawa and Gombe States. In this connection the Nigerian Police has also stepped up its 24 hour patrolling of sensitive and soft targets viz markets, schools, parks, hotels, mosques and churches. The ongoing agitations in the South East as also kidnapping incidents in the Niger Delta and Kogi State continue to pose security challenges.
2. The risk of terrorist attacks increases around religious festivals, so will be high in the run up to Christmas and New Year holiday period. Nigerian Police have cautioned about terrorist groups threat to conduct bombings in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) area during this period. It is also expected that criminal activities will also see an escalation during the aforesaid period.
3. The High Commission of India emphasises its previous advisories to the Indian Nationals in Nigeria and cautions them to be extra vigilant and take all possible security measures to ensure their protection. It is important to closely follow updates on the prevailing security situation issued by the local government and police. A list of DO’s and DON’T’s is attached for ready reference.
4. In case of any emerging crisis or trouble, or if you have any information to share, please contact the Indian High Commission at Abuja or the Consular Office in Lagos at the following co-ordinates: -
High Commission of India, Abuja
(a) Mr. Sreenivasan Nair
Email- cons1.abuja@mea.gov.in
Mobile- +234-9070349989
(b) Mr. A.S. Prem Ramyo
Emergency No- +234-9070343860
Office of High Commission of India, Lagos
(a) Mr Ramesh Subbu
Email- hoc.lagos@mea.gov.in, fs1@hcilagos.org
Mobile- +234-8128308752
Emergency No- +234-8128308758
SECURITY INSTRUCTIONS - DO’s AND DON’T’s
DO’s
1. Keep your identity papers handy, to be shown to security personnel when asked.
2. Keep telephone numbers and contact details of your friends, neighbours, local police station and Indian High Commission handy.
3. Keep in regular touch with the local Indian Association to obtain updates the prevailing security situation. Follow news reports and be alert to developments.
4. Stocks of essential items, ie food stuff, water, medicines and fuel should be kept, to enable sustenance in case the security situation deteriorates.
5. Inform your co-workers, friends/relations about your movements so that in case there is a crisis then alert can be sounded.
6. Do keep your passport valid for travel in emergencies.
7. Telephone numbers of NOK and your Blood Group should be accessible.
8. It is better to venture out if required in groups, rather than alone.
9. Do try and use personal company vehicles instead of local taxis.
10. If you’re working or travelling in areas where there is a Boko Haram presence, especially in the North East of Nigeria, you should be aware of the threat of terrorist kidnap.
11. Do follow your employer’s security advice, make sure your accommodation is secure and review your security measures regularly.
12. The local laws and practices should be respected at all times.
DON’T’s
1. Do not rely on unknown persons or strangers.
2. In case of a crisis do not venture out and remain inside your house or campus till the situation has improved.
3. Do not travel alone, especially at night.
4. If unsure, then do not share your travel details with strangers.
5. Avoid large crowds and public demonstrations as they can turn violent unexpectedly and at short notice.
6. Avoid going to crowded local market places.
7. Avoid ostentatious display of wealth.
8. Do not get into arguments with the locals, better to walk away from a developing dangerous situation.
Nigeria being a friendly country, should be reflected in our behaviour
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