The US Department of State has authorised the departure of non-essential personnel and their families from the United States Embassy in Abuja, citing worsening security conditions across Nigeria.
In a revised travel advisory released on Wednesday, the department urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria, raising concerns over escalating incidents of crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest nationwide.
Effective April 8, 2026, Nigeria remains under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory. However, the situation is more severe in several regions, with 23 states now classified under “Level 4: Do Not Travel”—the highest warning level.
New additions to the high-risk category include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states, reflecting what U.S. authorities described as a rapidly deteriorating and unpredictable security landscape.
“The security situation in these states is unstable due to ongoing civil unrest, intercommunal violence, and armed criminal activities such as kidnapping and roadside banditry,” the advisory stated, warning that security operations may occur without prior notice.
The department also reiterated its warning for several states in southern and southeastern Nigeria—Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt)—where crime, unrest, and kidnapping risks remain high.
According to the advisory, violent crimes including armed robbery, carjacking, and ransom-driven abductions are widespread, with U.S. citizens often targeted due to perceived wealth.
It further warned that terrorist threats persist across the country, particularly in crowded public places such as markets, shopping malls, hotels, religious centres, and large gatherings.
In addition to security concerns, the advisory highlighted challenges in Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting that medical services are often limited and may not meet international standards.
Despite the warnings, the State Department encouraged Americans who must travel to Nigeria to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and establish personal safety measures, including “proof of life” protocols in case of emergencies.
