Lua attempt to compare number with nil

[cire2003]

i been trying to make a script that would make stop ppl from lvling once they reach a level X till they do a certain quest. did this below but i keep getting "attempt to compare number with nil"

if(getPlayerStorageValue(cid, 9996) == -1 and newlevel >= 250) then
			doCreatureSay(cid, "Congratulation on reaching this level. Go above Refugia depot to do the quest that you need to unlock further level.", TALKTYPE_ORANGE_1)
            	        setPlayerStorageValue(cid, 9996, 1)
			PlayerSetStorageValue(cid, queststorage, 1)
			PlayerSetExperienceRate(cid, 0.0)
end

i tryed that as well as this getPlayerStorageValue(cid, 9996) ~= 1 and this getPlayerStorageValue(cid, 9996) == NULL

with the == NULL i wouldnt get error message but it wouldnt do the script after

 

[Cykotitan]

newlevel was nil.