The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a security advisory warning American citizens to steer clear of Nigerian military bases and government facilities in Abuja due to heightened global security concerns.
In a statement released on Sunday, the embassy announced that all U.S. government employees and their families are restricted from visiting Nigerian military and government locations in the capital unless conducting official business. The advisory urged U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution in public areas, especially those frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials.
“Remain vigilant in public places. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid large gatherings, and limit non-essential travel,” the alert advised. Additional recommendations included varying daily routines to avoid predictability, becoming familiar with emergency exits, and updating personal security plans. Despite the restrictions, the embassy’s Consular Sections in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remain fully operational and available to provide assistance.
The U.S. government also encouraged its citizens to stay informed through its official website and to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time security updates.
The alert follows a recent suicide bombing by Boko Haram that killed more than 20 people in Borno State. It also comes in the wake of escalating global tensions, including the U.S. bombing of Iranian nuclear sites and ongoing missile exchanges between Israel and Iran, which have resulted in the deaths of top Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists.
