By Ghazali Ibrahim
The United States government has authorised the departure of non-emergency personnel and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security situation across Nigeria.
The directive, issued by the U.S. Department of State, allows non-essential staff and dependents to leave the country as concerns grow over escalating threats, including terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
According to the updated travel advisory, Nigeria has been placed under a Level 3: Reconsider Travel classification, while at least 23 states were designated as “Do Not Travel” zones due to heightened risks.
The advisory highlighted widespread violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom, warning that U.S. citizens are often targeted because they are perceived as wealthy.
It further noted that terrorist attacks remain a persistent threat, with potential targets including public spaces such as markets, shopping centres, hotels, and places of worship.
In addition to security concerns, the U.S. government pointed to limited and inconsistent healthcare services in parts of Nigeria, which could complicate emergency responses for its citizens.
The move underscores growing international concern over Nigeria’s security challenges, which have been marked by recurring incidents of banditry, insurgency, and communal violence in several regions.
Despite the advisory, Nigerian authorities have yet to issue an official response to the latest U.S. directive as of the time of filing this report.
