Changes

It is important to know what which areas are safe and which are risky, as this can change rapidly. Locals will usually give reliable advice and contrary to popular belief, Nigerian police can be very helpful. As in many parts of Africa they will find it strange that a foreigner is travelling by hitchiking (most locals would not do it as they see it as begging and therefore below them, particularly on main roads where public transit is readily available). With all the political coups that reign throughout Nigeria's 50 years of independence, the police have learned to be somewhat suspicious and they may question your motives, so give them no reason to suspect you of being a spy. They are inherently suspicious of cameras, so keep them hidden around police and do not take pictures of government buildings. Otherwise police will generally not hinder you or ask for bribes. As is the case in most African countries, requesting bribes is reserved for rich people in shiny SUVs flashing fancy cameras and iPhones, not for slightly grubby looking foreigners 'begging' for free rides. In some areas, particularly farther north and east, the police may prove happy to assist with helping you find rides, or even offering a place to sleep.

It is also important to note that there is Islamic Sharia law in effect in the northern states. This issue has become more serious in recent years due to the increased activity of Al Qaeda affiliated group Boko Haram. Again, make sure to look into the current situation in the area you plan to travel through, and always ask for advice. Despite the Sharia law and its tendency to restrict women, hitchhiker [[user:notapalooka| Alyssa]] hitched it is possible for a solo woman to hitch solo throughout the country, including several northern states, without issue(as Alyssa did in 2010), however being highly assertive is important.