The United States Department of State has directed non-essential staff and their families to leave its embassy in Abuja due to growing security concerns across Nigeria.
In an updated travel advisory released on Wednesday, the department announced that the directive took effect on April 8, 2026, urging American citizens to reconsider traveling to Nigeria amid increasing threats such as crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and unreliable healthcare services.
Nigeria remains under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory, while 23 states have been classified under the highest warning level, “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” Newly added states in this category include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba.
The advisory noted that several northern states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, and Yobe, as well as parts of Adamawa, face serious risks from terrorism, armed violence, and kidnapping.
In the southern and southeastern regions, states such as Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were also flagged due to concerns over violent crime, abductions, and unrest.
Officials emphasized that the security situation remains unpredictable, with frequent cases of communal clashes, bandit attacks, and sudden military or security operations.
The advisory also highlighted that crimes like armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom are widespread, with foreign nationals often seen as prime targets.
Additionally, the department warned that terrorist attacks could happen without notice in public spaces such as markets, shopping malls, hotels, places of worship, and large gatherings.
Concerns were also raised about the country’s healthcare system, which was described as limited and inconsistent compared to international standards.
Americans who still need to travel to Nigeria were advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), stay away from protests and crowded areas, and take extra precautions to ensure their personal safety.
