US URGES CITIZENS TO RECONSIDER TRAVEL TO NIGERIAN OVER INSECURITIES,

Also Read

 

The United States has advised its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria, citing growing concerns over terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest in several parts of the country.

In an updated advisory issued by the United States Department of State, at least 23 Nigerian states were placed under the highest risk category — “Level 4: Do Not Travel” — with officials describing the security situation in those areas as “unstable and uncertain.”

As part of precautionary measures, the US government also approved the departure of non-essential staff and family members from its embassy in Abuja, pointing to a worsening security environment.

The move follows a recent surge in  violent incidents across Nigeria, despite ongoing security collaboration between the US and Nigeria in areas such as counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, maritime security, and military training. American support has included surveillance operations and the deployment of US-supplied aircraft in missions against insurgent and armed groups.

According to the advisory, attacks could occur with little or no warning, especially in public spaces like markets, hotels, places of worship, schools, and transportation hubs.

While US officials have not clarified the timeline for the embassy drawdown or whether it affects locally employed staff, the development has raised fresh concerns about Nigeria’s security outlook on the global stage.

The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official response. However, in the past, authorities have criticised such advisories, arguing that they often overlook improvements in security and risk harming the country’s international reputation.

The warning also comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to attract foreign investment and strengthen economic recovery. Analysts fear that repeated high-level travel alerts could negatively impact tourism, diaspora engagement, and international business activities.

Security challenges persist across multiple regions. In the northeast, insurgent groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province continue to carry out attacks on civilians, security forces, and aid workers. Meanwhile, parts of north-central Nigeria, including Plateau and Benue states, have experienced renewed violence linked to banditry and communal clashes.

Despite maintaining Nigeria at an overall “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” status, US authorities emphasised that certain high-risk areas remain under stricter “Level 4” restrictions, urging citizens to exercise extreme caution.