By Deborah Nnamdi
The United States Department of State has ordered the departure of non-essential staff and family members from its embassy in Abuja, citing deteriorating security conditions across Nigeria.
In a travel advisory issued on Wednesday, the department urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria from April 8, 2026, warning of heightened risks including crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and limited access to quality healthcare.
Nigeria was placed under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while 23 states were classified under the more severe “Level 4: Do Not Travel” category.
Among the states newly added to the Level 4 list are Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba. Other high-risk areas include Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and parts of Adamawa State, where terrorism and kidnapping threats remain prevalent. In the South, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers State—excluding Port Harcourt—were also flagged due to widespread crime and unrest.
The advisory warned that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom are common, with foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, often targeted. It also cautioned that terrorist attacks could occur in public spaces such as markets, places of worship, hotels, and large gatherings.
Additionally, the department highlighted concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting that medical services are inconsistent and often fall short of international standards.
Americans planning to travel to Nigeria were advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), avoid demonstrations and crowded areas, and put in place strict personal security measures.
