Abuja - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Widely accepted: sort of. Safe: not really. Open a Nigerian bank account when you get here and use that bank card -- that's the safest option. I've been fine just using cash, but the country did have a cash shortage last year that made me wish I'd just opened an account. - Jun 2024
This is the fraud capital of the world, so think twice (or more) before you use any card anywhere. Cash rules. There is a bank teller at the embassy and an ATM as well, but it is not recommended to use other ATMs. - Sep 2019
This seems to be the fraud capital of the world. Stay safe and if you're with the Embassy, use the ATM there. If not, we recommend the ATM in the Transcorp Hilton side hall with shops towards the pastry shop. The bills there are the only ones we've found in Abuja that come out seeming new. The rest are horrible looking and smell off. Think possibly laundered, or not...toilet paper. Credit cards are taken most places, but be cautious. We've been here four years and have had three new cards issued due to fraud and WE ARE careful! - Feb 2019
Definitely a no-no to use credit/atm here. You can cash a check at the embassy. - Apr 2018
This is a cash-only post! - Apr 2017
I would not use a credit card here. They have ATMs, and many people use them, but there is a limit on daily disbursements. Note that the machines are cell-phone linked and may lose cell signals on a regular basis. - Jun 2016
Um, did I mention this was Nigeria? Cash your checks at the embassy. - Aug 2015
Not a good idea in Nigeria, the home of fraud. - Nov 2014
Don't! This is Nigeria, home of the 419 scams. - Aug 2014
Do not do it. All cash society. Last thing you want is a Nigerian fraudster in your bank accounts. - May 2014
It is entirely a cash economy. The only safe place to do either is at the Hilton, and even then, I wouldn't. Most diplomats cash checks at work and avoid the problem altogether. - May 2013
Do not use them under any circumstances. - Jun 2009
Don't. - Mar 2009
DON'T! - Sep 2008
This is Nigeria. No sane, wise person uses either. - Aug 2008
Don't. - Jul 2008
