A general strike in Nigeria over the elimination of a fuel subsidy has brought the country to a standstill.

Shops, offices, schools and petrol stations around the country closed on the first day of an indefinite strike.

In Lagos and other cities, thousands marched against the removal of the subsidy, which has doubled fuel costs.

Police fired on protesters in Kano in the north, reportedly killing two and wounding many. Another demonstrator died in a clash with police in Lagos.

President Goodluck Jonathan has said the subsidy was economically unsustainable.

In major urban centres such as the capital, Abuja, and the cities of Lagos, Kaduna, and Port Harcourt, transportation services have been suspended.

In Abuja, pickets are preventing flights from arriving or departing Abuja's Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, resulting in a suspension of all flights.

Travellers currently in the country are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and should anticipate for extended transportation disruptions.