Lagos and Abuja are frequently proposed as internal relocation alternatives in Nigerian asylum cases. Whether relocation is viable depends entirely on the appellant's profile. LGBTQ+ Nigerians generally cannot safely relocate because SSMPA enforcement applies nationwide and the EUAA 2026 country guidance confirms that where persecution is by the state, internal protection is not available.
For other profiles, including some Boko Haram targets and political dissidents, internal relocation to Lagos or Abuja may be feasible depending on the individual's circumstances, profile visibility, and the reach of persecutory actors. Expert witnesses provide profile-specific analysis addressing both safety and the unduly harsh test.
Beyond safety, the tribunal must assess whether it would be unduly harsh to expect the appellant to relocate, considering personal circumstances, support networks, language, employment prospects, and access to healthcare and accommodation. Expert witnesses provide analysis of practical conditions in Lagos and Abuja for the specific profile, including cost of living, housing availability, and employment markets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can LGBTQ+ Nigerians internally relocate to Lagos or Abuja?
Internal relocation to Lagos or Abuja is not a viable option for LGBTQ+ Nigerians. The EUAA 2026 country guidance confirms that where persecution is by the state (which applies to LGBTQ+ individuals under SSMPA), internal protection is not available because state enforcement of SSMPA applies nationwide. Expert witnesses address this profile-specific analysis directly.
How does the "unduly harsh" test apply to Nigerian internal relocation?
Beyond safety, the tribunal must assess whether it would be unduly harsh to expect the appellant to relocate, considering their personal circumstances, support networks, language, employment prospects, and access to healthcare and accommodation. Expert witnesses provide analysis of the practical conditions in Lagos and Abuja for the specific profile.