Nigeria: Heightened security likely in Lagos Dec. 9 for presidential visit

Event

Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari, is scheduled to visit Lagos Dec 9 to inspect the Lagos-Ibadan rail project. Buhari will likely arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) and will be the guest honor at an event located at the Eko Hotels and Suites on Victoria Island. He will likely visit other locations in Lagos on the day.

Amid the presidential visit, officials will almost certainly increase security and prohibit vehicle movement near meeting areas and in the vicinity of LOS where Buhari will likely arrive. Transport disruptions and measures such as roadblocks, road closures, and thorough identity and vehicle checks are more likely on Victoria Island. Spontaneous antigovernment protests from opposition or civil society groups cannot be ruled; security personnel will likely move swiftly and decisively to quell them.

Advice

Exercise caution around event locations in Lagos and at LOS Dec. 9. Plan for possible localized road closures and transport disruptions, especially if traveling to and from LOS. Keep away from any location where security forces appear to be deploying; depart the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Heed the instructions of local authorities.