Godsent Ogbebor – Abuja Correspondent
Security Concerns Grow as US Embassy Warns Citizens on Travel Across Nigeria
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has raised fresh concerns over the safety of its citizens, listing 23 Nigerian states as high-risk areas and advising against non-essential travel due to worsening insecurity.
In its latest advisory, the embassy urged Americans to reconsider visiting Nigeria, citing persistent threats including crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. The country remains under a Level 3 travel advisory, while several regions have been escalated to Level 4, indicating extreme danger.
The advisory also confirmed that the US Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency staff and their families from the embassy in Abuja following the deteriorating security situation.
States listed under “Do Not Travel”
- Borno
- Jigawa
- Kogi
- Kwara
- Niger
- Plateau
- Taraba
- Yobe
- Northern Adamawa
According to the advisory, these areas face unstable and unpredictable security conditions, including violent clashes, armed crime, and frequent incidents of kidnapping and banditry.
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Additional high-risk states due to unrest and kidnapping:
- Bauchi
- Gombe
- Kaduna
- Kano
- Katsina
- Sokoto
- Zamfara
Southern states flagged for crime risks:
- Abia
- Anambra
- Bayelsa
- Delta
- Enugu
- Imo
- Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt)
The embassy warned that crime remains widespread, particularly in southern regions, with a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and activities of armed groups.
It further noted that violent crimes such as armed robbery and carjacking are common, with foreign nationals often targeted due to perceptions of wealth. Public places including markets, shopping centres, hotels, and places of worship were also highlighted as potential targets for terrorist attacks.
In addition, concerns were raised about the inconsistency of healthcare services across the country, which may not meet international standards.
Despite the warnings, the embassy advised citizens who still intend to travel to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates and emergency assistance. Travellers were also encouraged to take precautionary measures, avoid large gatherings, and maintain personal safety protocols throughout their stay.
