The United States has advised its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria and approved the departure of non-emergency U.S. government staff and their families from the embassy in Abuja, citing growing security concerns. The United States Embassy in Abuja also announced the suspension of visa appointments, while stating that emergency services for American citizens would continue by appointment. No timeline was given for when visa processing would resume.
U.S. travel advisories often influence how investors, airlines, and international organisations assess risk levels in affected countries. The latest move signals increased concern in Washington over ongoing insecurity, including kidnappings, armed banditry, and attacks on security personnel, particularly in northern Nigeria.In an updated advisory, the United States Department of State maintained Nigeria at a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” rating, while adding several states—Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba—to its “Do Not Travel” list. This brings the total number of restricted states to 23 out of 36.
The advisory also pointed to threats from extremist groups in the northeast, criminal networks in the northwest, and ongoing violence in parts of southern and southeastern Nigeria, including oil-producing regions. Responding to the alert, Nigeria’s Information Ministry said the warning reflected internal U.S. protocols and did not accurately represent the overall security situation in the country. It acknowledged localized security challenges but maintained that most parts of Nigeria remain stable and under control.
Last month, Washington had also issued a warning about a possible terrorist threat targeting U.S. facilities and affiliated schools in Nigeria. The U.S. has maintained Nigeria at Level 3 or Level 4 in its travel advisory system for several years due to persistent security challenges. It also continues to operate military surveillance assets, including MQ-9 drones, in support of Nigerian security forces battling insurgents in the north.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/
