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| Travel Safely in Nigeria This Christmas – 2025 Guide |
The Christmas holiday season is one of the busiest travel periods in Nigeria. From family reunions to village trips, weddings, concerts, Detty December events, and year-end holidays, millions of people are on the move. While it’s a festive period, it also comes with certain challenges, busy roads, traffic, busy airports, weather issues, and the usual “Ember Months” rush.
Whether you’re traveling across states, visiting your hometown, or exploring a new destination, this guide gives you practical tips to stay safe, organized, and stress-free throughout the season.
Why Christmas Travel in Nigeria Needs Extra Caution
December travel is different because:
- Roads are extremely busy
- Many people travel long distances at the same time
- Harmattan affects visibility
- Security risks increase on highways
- Drivers get tired more easily
- Night travel becomes more dangerous
A safe trip begins with good planning and the right information.
1. Travel Early in the Day, Avoid Night Travel Completely
Night travel in Nigeria is riskier due to:
- reduced visibility
- tired drivers
- fewer security personnel on the road
- higher accident rates
Aim to leave between 5:30 am and 9:00 am.
Even if you’re flying, leave home early so holiday traffic doesn’t make you miss your flight.
2. Use Only Reputable Transport Companies
If you’re not driving, choose well-known companies such as:
- GIGM
- ABC
- Peace Mass Transit
- Young Shall Grow
- Reliable airlines: Air Peace, Arik, Green Africa, Ibom Air
Avoid roadside buses or unregistered vehicles, especially during December.
3. Do a Complete Vehicle Safety Check before Traveling
A quick 10–15 minute inspection can prevent problems.
Check:
- Tyres (very important during harmattan)
- Brake fluid
- Lights and indicators
- Engine oil
- Coolant/water
- Wipers
- Spare tyre and tools
If possible, service the car a week before your trip.
4. Don’t Announce Your Travel Plans on Social Media
This is a common holiday mistake.
Avoid posting:
- travel dates
- destination
- route
- flight details
- real-time pictures
Share photos only after you arrive safely.
5. Stick to Well-Known, Busy Routes
Before traveling, ask trusted people about the current condition of major roads like:
- Abuja–Kaduna
- Benin–Ore
- East–West Road
- Lokoja axis
- Enugu–Onitsha
Cross-check routes using:
- Google Maps
- Road users
- Local information
Avoid shortcuts through unfamiliar villages or isolated areas.
6. Keep Valuables Hidden and Travel Light
During the holiday rush, crowded places attract petty theft.
Keep your items:
- in zipped bags
- close to your body
- discreetly stored
- never on your lap in public places
Avoid traveling with unnecessary jewelry or gadgets.
7. Avoid Scams at Bus Parks and Terminals
Common tactics include:
- fake transport staff
- strangers offering to “help” with bags
- questionable POS machines
- people trying to redirect you to a different bus
Always buy tickets at official counters and watch your bags.
8. Share Your Travel Details with Someone You Trust
Send:
- vehicle plate number
- driver’s name
- route
- expected arrival time
Save these emergency numbers:
- 112 — National Emergency Hotline
- 122 — FRSC
- 767 — Lagos Emergency Service
9. Carry a Simple Travel Safety Kit
Pack:
- fully charged power bank
- flashlight
- bottled water
- light snacks
- small first-aid items
- sweater or shawl
- hand sanitizer
Being prepared reduces stress.
10. Harmattan Travel Tips
Harmattan can cause:
- low visibility
- dry roads
- cracked tyres
- dusty air
Drive slowly when visibility drops and use fog lights when needed.
11. Carry Less Cash, Use Secure Payments
Where possible:
- use transfers
- use trusted POS points
- keep cash in separate compartments
- avoid carrying large sums
Be alert, especially at bus stops, markets, and crowded areas.
12. Be Careful Where You Eat on the Road
To avoid stomach upsets during your journey:
Avoid:
- roadside open stalls
- improperly handled meals
Safer options:
- pack your snacks
- buy from trusted eateries
- drink only sealed beverages
13. Stay Alert in Crowded Places
Detty December means more crowds at:
- concerts
- airports
- markets
- parks
- shopping malls
Keep your phone, wallet, and bag secure and within easy reach.
14. Respect Local Communities When Visiting Your Village
Avoid:
- moving around late at night
- unfamiliar drinking spots
- arguments or unnecessary attention
- showing off valuables
Blend in and stay observant.
15. Don’t Enter Any Vehicle That Feels Unsafe
If the vehicle:
- is overloaded
- has a speeding driver
- looks poorly maintained
- makes you uncomfortable in any way
Get down immediately. Your safety comes first.
16. Secure Your Home before Traveling
Before leaving:
- turn off electrical appliances
- lock windows and doors
- inform a trusted neighbour
- keep important documents secure
- avoid posting your travel plans online
Final Travel Checklist
✔ Phone and power bank fully charged
✔ Snacks packed
✔ Cash separated into different pockets
✔ Bags locked properly
✔ Comfortable clothing worn
✔ Travel details shared with someone
✔ Route saved offline
✔ Transport or flight confirmed in advance
Conclusion: Travel Smart, Stay Alert, and Enjoy the Festive Season
Christmas travel in Nigeria can be exciting, memorable, and safe when you plan ahead. With heavy traffic and increased movement across the country, staying informed and cautious makes all the difference.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the season, reconnect with loved ones, and celebrate the holidays with peace of mind.
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