Lagos is West Africa's commercial capital — and one of Africa's highest-risk environments for crime, kidnapping and civil unrest. Standard travel insurance often underestimates what working here actually involves.
We provide specialist cover for journalists, NGOs, business travellers and contractors operating in Lagos and across Nigeria.
Lagos is rated high risk. OSAC classifies it as critical threat for crime and high threat for terrorism.
Standard travel insurance policies frequently exclude or significantly restrict cover for the levels of crime and instability present in Lagos.
Can you get insurance for Lagos?
We provide specialist insurance for journalists, NGOs, business travellers and contractors operating in Lagos. Cover is subject to accurate disclosure of your role and itinerary.
Security context
The situation
Lagos is Nigeria's commercial capital and the largest city in sub-Saharan Africa, with a population estimated at over 14 million in the metropolitan area. It is the primary entry point for international business, media and NGO operations in West Africa. Despite its economic importance, Lagos is consistently rated as one of Africa's highest-risk major cities for crime, kidnapping and security incidents targeting foreigners and business travellers.
The OSAC Crime & Safety Report classifies Lagos as a critical threat environment for crime and a high threat for terrorism and political violence, particularly in areas near Borno State and the north of the country. In Lagos itself, the most significant risks are armed robbery, express kidnapping (known locally as "one-chance" robberies), business email compromise and violent crime. The Lekki and Victoria Island districts host most international business operations and have better security infrastructure, but incidents occur throughout the metropolitan area.
Medical infrastructure in Lagos is better than much of Nigeria, with private hospitals including Reddington Hospital and Eko Hospital providing reasonable care. However, for serious trauma or complex medical emergencies, evacuation to South Africa (Johannesburg) or Europe is the standard contingency for international organisations. Public hospitals should not be relied upon for emergency care by international workers.
What to watch
Why it can be challenging
High levels of violent crime and kidnapping
Armed robbery, express kidnapping and carjacking targeting foreigners and business travellers are consistent risks in Lagos. Airport transfers and late-night movement are particularly high-risk. The use of police escorts and vetted drivers is standard practice for international organisations operating here.
Civil unrest and protest risk
Lagos has been the scene of major civil unrest, most notably the #EndSARS protests in October 2020 which resulted in security force intervention and significant property damage. Political and social grievances remain live and can trigger rapid escalation from peaceful protest to violence.
Fraud and financial crime targeting businesses
Lagos is one of the world's most active environments for business email compromise, advance fee fraud and financial crime targeting international organisations. Security protocols for financial transactions and communications must be robust.
Medical infrastructure limitations for complex emergencies
While Lagos has the best private medical facilities in Nigeria, capacity for complex trauma and specialist care is limited compared to South Africa or Europe. For serious emergencies, evacuation planning must be in place from day one of any assignment.
Emergency support
NGS provides round-the-clock emergency support. In Lagos, this includes coordinating care within the city's private medical facilities and planning evacuation to South Africa or Europe for serious emergencies.
24/7 response
Round-the-clock support every day of the year
Medical coordination
Coordinating care including evacuation to South Africa or Europe
Evacuation support
Managing exit via Murtala Muhammed International Airport
Case management
Handling the incident through to a safer outcome
Exclusions
This policy is designed to protect people, not possessions.
Cover not included
Activity exclusions
Property exclusions
Threat intelligence
For a deeper understanding of the current situation, including operational risks and regional dynamics, see our threat intelligence hub.
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