Chinese travel creator Xiao Jony warns tourists against visiting Nigeria after repeated extortion in Lagos
Popular Chinese travel content creator Xiao Jony (also known as Xiao Johnny) has issued a stark warning advising international tourists to avoid visiting Nigeria following repeated extortion attempts during his recent tour of Lagos State.
The vlogger, who specialises in exploring African cultures and local street food, documented his experience in a viral video recorded while filming in a local Lagos market.
Harassment at local market sparked confrontation
The incident unfolded while Xiao Jony was filming himself sampling local street delicacies. A group of men, identified online as local street louts, confronted him and demanded money.
When the content creator questioned the rationale behind the demand, the men offered no valid legal or official justification. Instead, they asserted entitlement based on nationality, stating: “Stop! Pay me money! I am a citizen and you are not.”
Over 20 checkpoints encountered along 10-kilometre stretch
Xiao Jony revealed that the market encounter was part of a larger pattern of extortion during his time in the commercial hub.
He stated that over a single 10-kilometer stretch of his journey, he encountered more than 20 unofficial checkpoints where groups demanded money solely because he was a foreign visitor.
Expressing deep frustration over the persistent harassment, the travel creator concluded his broadcast with a direct appeal to his global audience: “Do not come to Nigeria.”
Outrage and public concern over tourism impact
The viral footage has sparked intense debate across Nigerian social media platforms, with many citizens expressing embarrassment over the actions of local “agberos” (street louts).
Commentators and tourism advocates have raised concerns that such unchecked extortion harms Nigeria’s image, de-markets the country as a travel destination, and undermines efforts to attract foreign investment and international visitors.
Read Also: Chinese man tears naira notes in protest after Lagos Govt officials sealed his company (video)
