Having some solo travel experience in Nigeria is not one for the weak-hearted.
Solo travel in Nigeria is an experience one has to have at least once in a lifetime but there are many things that one should not to do when travelling alone in Nigeria.
Many dread solo travel due to the many myths surrounding it. When other people do it on Instagram, though, it looks fun and you think, "why not?" These are the things Instagram doesn't tell you not to do when travelling.
1. Being unprepared for simple health emergencies
You might find yourself having a headache or a running stomach from something you ate or even malaria. Because you will be alone, it's either you get health insurance or take some medicine along the way. You don't know what a tablet of Imodium or Paracetamol can do for you on a trip. It is better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
2. Not researching the area
Research is very important no matter where you are going to. It is good to know the language spoken in the area, cost of living, cultural and religious practices/requirements, mode of dressing, weather, security, etc. This will save you unnecessary harassments and distress that come from unpreparedness. Check out our solo travel guide to Nigeria.
3. Not telling family and friends about your itinerary
Spontaneous travel is fun and all, but try as much as possible to keep your family and friends in the loop about where you will be and what you will be doing. If not family and friends, at least let your hotel or host know what you will be up to.
4. Not staying updated on security in the area
There are some places in Nigeria with on-going security concerns. When visiting such places or surrounding states, it is very important to stay updated on the security of that area and its neighbours. Also, stick to the curfews, if any.
5. Travelling during nighttime
Many places in Nigeria do not have street lighting, so it is advisable to travel during the daytime. Not to mention robberies, cattle, bikers and just general bad roads that can be a good recipe for accidents. Though night buses are more time-efficient, it is not advisable.
6. Not being familiar with the language
If you are going to a state or town whose language is different from yours, get familiar with the language before hand or get someone who knows the language to act as a tour guide. For example, when going to Northern Nigeria, Hausa is the predominant language spoken in those parts. Do not underestimate the power of knowing a language in a foreign land as it can save you from danger, being cheated and other difficulties.
7. Taxis
If possible, use taxis for locations far away from main town. Do not leave it up to chance.
8. Telling strangers about your place of stay
This is very important. You never really know people's intentions. If it comes up in conversation and it seems iffy, you can mention a vague location far away from where you are staying. Also, don't tell strangers you are travelling alone. This is probably more useful for solo female travellers. You can say "I am meeting a friend at the end of destination," or "someone is waiting for me."
9. Not being mindful when boarding public transport
Be very mindful of scam artists and pick pockets in these areas. Always be mindful of your luggage and don't take your eyes off it. There's this common scam at local parks, especially in the east, where the bus is fake loaded with passengers to give the impression that the bus is about to depart and then the fake passengers alight one by one to accommodate real passengers, which makes waiting time take longer than anticipated. Be mindful/prepared for this.
10. Not being open-minded
If you're around people, don't be scared to mingle and be friendly. If you are in a taxi, try to make friends with the driver too. Best bet is your best experiences and stories are hidden in interactions with strangers.