Abuja Secure Transportation Services

ETS Security Services  and Secure Transportation in Abuja

We are the trusted provider of Secure transportation to a range of Fortune 10, 100 and 500 companies both in Abuja and throughout Nigeria. By utilizing our local team of security specialists, you will be reducing your exposure to the myriad potential risks that inhabit daily life within the region.  

Travel executives are at greatest risk when in transit. ETS can draw from local knowledge and intelligence to assess changing situations and react accordingly.  Our Nigerian team are highly qualified and experienced protectors.  All of which have extended time served in the security industry and often multiple years experience in military and special forces operations, law enforcement and high-risk private-sector missions.

Executive Protection Services in Nigeria

ETS Risk Management provides Secure Transportation and Executive Protection services to a wide range of clients traveling to Abuja, Lagos and throughout Nigeria. Our local experienced protective security team and security drivers have been supporting ETS within Nigeria for over 10 years. We offer Executive Protection and armed security support for secure airport transfers and business travel security.

ETS provides travel risk management and security solutions to a range of visitors and business travelers to Lagos and Abuja and the surrounding regions, including energy companies and NGOs.  Our central hub of operations is located between Lagos and Abuja, but our operational capabilities span across the country to include Port Harcourt in the south of the region.

ETS Security Overview - Abuja

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, faces numerous security challenges that affect both residents and foreign nationals. While the country is a regional economic powerhouse, driven by its oil and gas sector, it is also grappling with terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, organized crime, civil unrest, and ongoing ethnic and political tensions. Security risks vary significantly by region, with different areas of the country facing unique threats.

The northeastern region of Nigeria remains a high-risk area due to ongoing terrorist activity by Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP). These groups are responsible for bombings, attacks on military personnel, kidnappings, and the displacement of millions. States like Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa are the most affected by these groups. The threat level in these regions remains critical, with frequent attacks on both civilian and military targets. Boko Haram and ISWAP have targeted foreigners for kidnapping, particularly humanitarian workers, and are known for high-profile abductions. Travelers should avoid this region entirely unless absolutely necessary. Although most attacks occur in the Northeast,  they can happen anywhere. Major urban centers remain most at risk. Attacks have taken place around religious and public holidays in public or crowded places, including places of worship.

Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, is the political and administrative center of the country. Compared to other parts of Nigeria, such as Lagos, Port Harcourt, or the northeastern states, Abuja is considered lower risk. However, the city still faces several security risks, including terrorism, kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest. Abuja is home to many government offices, foreign embassies, international organizations, and expatriate communities, making it a potential target for terrorist activity and other security challenges. 

The primary terrorist threats in Abuja stem from Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP). While these groups primarily operate in the northeastern part of the country, there have been several attacks and bombings in Abuja, particularly targeting government buildings and public spaces. Historical terrorist attacks include in 2011, Boko Haram carried out a suicide bombing on the United Nations building in Abuja, killing 21 people and injuring many others. This marked a significant escalation in Boko Haram's reach beyond the northeastern region. Furthermore, in 2014 a car bomb attack on a busy bus station in Nyanya, on the outskirts of Abuja, killed more than 70 people. This attack targeted commuters during rush hour.

Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, poses a significant threat, particularly after dark. Home invasions have also been reported in some upscale neighborhoods. Criminals may target expatriates, diplomatic staff, and high-profile individuals for armed robberies or home invasions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and mobile phone theft, is very common in Abuja, and is especially prevalent in crowded areas, particularly in markets and public transport hubs. Tourists, expatriates, and business travelers are often targeted by opportunistic criminals.

Kidnapping is also high risk in Nigeria, including in Abuja. While kidnapping incidents in Abuja are less frequent than in states like Zamfara or Kaduna, the city is not immune. Criminal gangs and opportunistic criminals sometimes target high-net-worth individuals, expatriates, or employees of foreign companies for ransom.

Abuja can experience heavy rainfall during the rainy season (April to October), leading to localized flooding. While the city is not prone to severe flooding, poorly maintained drainage systems in some areas can lead to temporary road blockages and property damage. Travelers should monitor weather forecasts during the rainy season and avoid traveling through flood-prone areas.

Road travel across Nigeria can be unpredictable and dangerous. The country has one of the highest rates of road accidents globally due to poor road conditions, reckless driving, and poorly enforced traffic laws. While major roads in Abuja are relatively well-maintained, driving in the city can still be dangerous due to traffic congestion and erratic driving behavior. Carjackings and roadside robberies are a concern, particularly at night or in less-populated areas. Criminals may target vehicles stuck in traffic or set up roadblocks to rob drivers and passengers.

Road conditions in Nigeria are poor, and potholes are prolific.  Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) are frequent, and fatality rates are high due to the inadequate and crumbling state of roads.  Major roads with high volumes of vehicle travel present a dangerous threat to travelers from criminals operating in the area.  Common crimes include accessing vehicles when traffic is forced to slow down, or if your vehicle has stopped in heavy traffic.  Criminals are known to steal valuables and armed violence cannot be ruled out.

Public transport is dangerous and should be avoided at all times. Vehicles are poorly maintained, and drivers are unqualified.  Strongly consider secure transportation when transiting in Abuja and throughout Nigeria.  A non-armoured SUV accompanied by a security driver and close protection officer will reduce the risk of being involved in dangerous or threatening situations.  If traveling outside of Abuja or during the evenings, MOPOL (Nigerian Mobile Police) are advised to travel with you in convoy at all times.

Secure Airport Transfers in Abuja

ETS facilitates secure airport transfers for a range of clients and are the preferred suppliers to several Fortune 500 companies. Our security drivers and Close Protection Officers provide a low-profile meet and greet service and enable secure movement to/from airport and hotels.

Our secure transportation network has a catalogue of non-armored SUVs, high-grade armored vehicles and security drivers to suit every situation. Our team of local protective specialists include highly experienced and vetted close protection officers;  their knowledge of security, logistics, emergency first aid, and understanding of local cultures ensures client operations are deployed securely and effectively at all times.

Armed Security Escorts in Abuja

For Armed security in Nigeria it is legally mandated to use MOPOL.  ETS operates in conjunction with MOPOL throughout Nigeria to provide an armed security capability for our clients. We provide the security driver and CPOs and direct the police while on our missions.  It is important to note that ETS will never have the client based within the same vehicle as the MOPOL.  The MOPOL is an armed back up for traveling during the evening hours or when moving through remote locations.  An ETS close protection officer will travel with the security driver and client vehicle at all times.

Armored Vehicle Rental, Nigeria

With a global reach, expert teams, and cutting-edge technology, ETS offers tailored secure transportation services that can be trusted in any situation. Our transportation service in Nigeria has a full range of non-armored high end Sedans and SUV's as well as multiple low profile armored vehicles to choose from, if required to better fit our clientele’s risk profile. All are available with English speaking security drivers and GPS tracking services

To learn more about Armored Vehicle Rental Considerations and how Armored Vehicle Ratings work please click on the corresponding hyper-link.

 

All clients utilizing our services get free access to the ExploreSecure® Travel Security Training.