Port Harcourt Secure Transportation Services

Nigeria Secure Transportation and Executive Protection Services

ETS Risk Management provides protective security and secure ground transportation services to a wide range of clients traveling to Port Harcourt, Lagos and throughout Nigeria. Our local experienced protective security team and security drivers in Nigeria have been supporting ETS for over 10 years. We offer Executive Protection and armed security transportation services for all secure airport transfers and business travel security.

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

ETS Security and Secure Transportation in Nigeria

We are the trusted provider of Secure transportation to a range of Fortune 10, 100 and 500 companies operating in Nigeria. By utilizing our vetted local team of security specialists, you will be reducing your exposure to the 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 ever 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 most have multiple years experience in military and special forces operations, law enforcement and high-risk private-sector missions.

ETS Security Overview - Nigeria

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is a regional economic powerhouse but faces numerous complex security challenges that affect the safety of its citizens, businesses, and travelers. The country is divided across geopolitical and ethnic lines, and threats vary significantly by region. These range from terrorism in the northeast, militancy in the Niger Delta, to kidnappings and organized crime in various parts of the country.

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.

Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State in southern Nigeria, is a major industrial city and one of the country's key oil and gas hubs. Due to its strategic importance in the oil and gas sector, the city faces numerous security challenges, including crime, militant activity, kidnapping, and civil unrest. Travelers and businesses operating in Port Harcourt should exercise caution and be aware of the heightened security risks, particularly around oil facilities and expatriate communities.

Port Harcourt has high levels of crime. Violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, and home invasions, is a serious concern in Port Harcourt. Criminal gangs are active in the city, and incidents of violent crime can occur both during the day and at night. Expatriates and wealthier individuals are at particular risk of being targeted, especially in less secure areas. Home invasions and burglaries are reported in upscale neighborhoods and areas where expatriates and oil industry workers reside. Gated communities with private security are recommended for individuals living or staying in Port Harcourt. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and street scams are prevalent throughout the city. Crowded areas like markets, bus stations, and public transportation hubs are hotspots for these activities. Foreign nationals, especially expatriates, may be perceived as wealthier targets and should take extra precautions.

Organized criminal groups operate in and around Port Harcourt, often involved in activities such as oil theft (bunkering), drug trafficking, and extortion. These groups can occasionally target businesses and infrastructure in the city, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Kidnapping for ransom is also a significant risk in Port Harcourt and the wider Niger Delta region. Both locals and expatriates have been targets, with foreign workers in the oil and gas industry being particularly vulnerable. Kidnappers often operate in organized gangs, and victims are sometimes held in remote locations until a ransom is paid.

The city is situated in the Niger Delta region, where militant groups have a history of attacking oil infrastructure, kidnapping foreign workers, and clashing with security forces. Groups like the Niger Delta Avengers and other militant factions have attacked oil pipelines, facilities, and personnel as part of their demands for a greater share of the region's oil wealth. Militants often target oil companies, government facilities, and security forces in their operations. These attacks can result in significant disruptions to oil production and transportation and pose a direct threat to the safety of oil workers and expatriates. Foreign oil companies operating in the region are frequent targets of militant attacks, kidnappings, and sabotage. Companies are advised to maintain strong security protocols, including the use of private security contractors and secure transport.

Healthcare in Port Harcourt is limited in quality, especially in public hospitals. Private healthcare facilities, often used by expatriates, provide better services but may still lack the necessary equipment and specialists for serious medical conditions. It is advisable for travelers to have comprehensive health insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage, as serious medical issues may require treatment outside of Nigeria.

Road travel across Nigeria can be unpredictable and dangerous. Road conditions in Port Harcourt are poor, with potholes, inadequate lighting, and heavy traffic congestion creating dangerous driving conditions. Accidents are common, often exacerbated by reckless driving and a lack of traffic law enforcement.​​​​​​​ Carjackings and roadside robberies are a risk, particularly at night and on roads leading to more remote areas. Criminals may set up roadblocks or attack vehicles that are stuck in traffic. Travelers should avoid traveling alone and at night and use trusted, secure transportation services.

Public transportation is dangerous and should be avoided at all times. Vehicles are poorly maintained, and drivers are unqualified. Strongly consider using secure transportation when travelling in Port Harcourt 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 Port Harcourt or during the evenings, MOPOL (Nigerian Mobile Police) are advised to travel with you in convoy at all times.

Secure Airport Transfers in Port Harcourt

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 the requirement. 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 Port Harcourt

For Armed security in Nigeria it is legally mandated to use MOPOL. Click here to learn more about the use of MOPOL for armed security in Nigeria.

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 operations. 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 Port Harcourt 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 receive free access to the ExploreSecure® online travel security training course.