The United States Department of State has authorised non-emergency personnel and their families to leave the US Embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security environment across Nigeria.
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The advisory comes amid escalating concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest, which have intensified across multiple regions of the country.
In an updated travel advisory issued on Wednesday, Americans were urged to reconsider travel to Nigeria, with certain states classified under “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to heightened security risks. Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba were added to this list, bringing the total to 23 states where travel is strongly discouraged.
“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory read.
“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk,” it added.
In Northern Nigeria, the advisory highlighted Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa as particularly high-risk, citing terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also flagged due to civil unrest, widespread crime, and kidnappings.
“The security situation in these states is unstable and uncertain due to civil unrest. Widespread violence between communities and armed crime, including kidnapping and roadside banditry. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning,” the advisory warned.
Southern and Southeastern states were not spared. The Department urged caution in Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt), citing crime, kidnapping, and violent protests.
“Crime is widespread in Southern Nigeria. There is a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and armed gangs,” the advisory stated.
The advisory also underscored the perception of U.S. citizens as high-value targets, noting that armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnappings for ransom remain prevalent. Terrorist attacks, it said, continue to threaten public spaces, including markets, hotels, places of worship, and other gatherings.
Health infrastructure in the country was described as limited and inconsistent, with medical facilities generally not meeting U.S. or European standards. The Department recommended that U.S. citizens considering travel enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, maintain personal safety protocols, avoid demonstrations, and remain vigilant in establishing “proof of life” procedures where necessary.
Analysts note that this travel advisory highlights the intersection of civil unrest, terrorism, and criminal activity in Nigeria, underscoring persistent challenges to national security. For foreign nationals and diplomatic staff, adherence to the guidance remains critical as the government navigates complex security threats.
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