High Commission of India, Abuja

Security Advisory of 17.1.2012

            Following a string of terrorist attacks, including bomb blasts, on December 31 2011 Government of Nigeria imposed a State of Emergency in 15 Local Government Areas in four Northern states (Niger, Plateau, Yobe and Borno) of the country. Nigeria also had a general strike during January 9-16 2012 which also raised some security concerns.

            These two developments have taken place against the backdrop of frequent reports of incidents of criminality and insecurity involving, in the main, kidnappings, communal violence and terrorism.

            Indian nationals in Nigeria are, therefore, advised to observe the following precautions:

· The local laws and practices should be respected at all times.

· Always keep your identity papers handy and show it to security agencies

· Remain vigilant and avoid travelling alone, esp. during night hours.

· Keep telephone numbers of your friends, neighbours, the local police station and Indian High Commission, handy.

· Keep stocks of essentials goods, including medicines, water, foodstuff & fuel.

· Try to avoid public arguments over sensitive or controversial matters.

· Nigeria is a friendly country and this should be reflected in our behaviour.     

· Avoid public gatherings, especially of political nature.  

· Inform near relations/friends/co-employees/employer about your movements to so that in case you are un-contactable, an alert can be raised.

In case of any problem or if you have any information to share, please contact Indian High Commission at Abuja/Lagos at the following co-ordinates:

High Commission of India, Abuja (Nigeria)

(i)         Mr Suresh K. Makhijani          E-mail: couns.abuja@mea.gov.in

Counsellor                               Mobile: 08128308701        

(ii)        Mr S. Mahesh                         E-mail: cons.abuja@mea.gov.in

Attache                                    Mobile: 08128308708

Office of High Commission of India, Lagos (Nigeria)

(i)         Mrs. Rani Malick                    E-mail: fs1@hcilagos.org

First Secretary  (Consular)      Mobile: 08128308751

(ii)        Mr R.K. Sharma                      E-mail: hoc.lagos@mea.gov.in

Second Secretary                    Mobile: 08128308752