In a significant travel advisory update, the Canadian government has warned its citizens to avoid travel to Nigeria and 16 other African countries due to escalating insecurity and political instability. This advisory, issued by Global Affairs Canada between November 13 and 15, 2025, marks one of the most extensive travel warnings in recent years, reflecting a troubling landscape of violence and unrest across the continent.
The advisory highlights a range of threats impacting these nations, including the rise of extremist networks in the Sahel and Horn of Africa, a series of military coups, communal violence, mass protests, and growing cross-border crime. Canadian officials have expressed concerns over fragile governance that has left many countries in a precarious state. As a result, Canadians are urged to take these risks seriously.
Countries to Avoid All Travel include South Sudan, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Libya, Mali, Niger, Somalia, and Sudan. Reports from local sources, such as Prime Business Africa, confirm that these nations are currently experiencing active insurgencies, militant attacks, and significant political challenges, making them “extremely risky” for Canadian travelers.
For those considering travel to other regions in Africa, the advisory also includes a list of nations classified under “Avoid Non-Essential Travel.” This group comprises the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, Chad, Ethiopia, Burundi, Eritrea, Mauritania, Nigeria, and Tanzania. The Canadian government advises travelers to carefully assess the necessity of their trips and to stay informed about local developments.
Security Threats and Political Instability
The revised travel warnings are a response to ongoing armed conflicts, fragile political transitions, and unpredictable security conditions across several regions in Africa. A statement from Global Affairs Canada emphasized that the situation requires heightened caution from travelers.
Citizens planning to visit countries on the “Avoid All Travel” list face potential extreme danger, limited consular support, and challenges in securing evacuation during emergencies. The detailed advisory serves as a critical reminder of the complexities and risks involved in traveling to these regions.
Given the interconnected nature of global security concerns, the Canadian government’s decision reflects broader patterns of instability affecting many nations. For Canadians, understanding these risks is essential for making informed travel decisions. As the situation in Africa evolves, travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and updated on the latest information from credible sources.
