The US had earlier raised concerns about security across 23 states, prompting the evacuation order. However, Nigerian authorities maintained on Thursday that the overall security situation in the country remains stable and under control, urging citizens not to panic.
On Wednesday, the US government authorised the departure of non-emergency personnel from the US Embassy Abuja, citing worsening security conditions nationwide.
As part of the measures, visa appointments at the Abuja embassy have been suspended, with affected applicants advised to check their emails for rescheduled dates. Meanwhile, operations at the US Consulate General Lagos will continue as usual, including visa services. Emergency assistance for American citizens is also still available by appointment.
In an updated travel advisory shared on its official X account, the US government warned its citizens to reconsider travelling to Nigeria, citing risks such as crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
The advisory maintained Nigeria at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while placing several states under “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” States affected include parts of the North, Middle Belt, and some southern and southeastern regions, where issues like armed violence, kidnapping, and unrest remain concerns.
According to the advisory, security conditions in these areas can be unpredictable, with threats such as roadside banditry, inter-communal clashes, and attacks in public places like markets, places of worship, and hotels.
The US also raised concerns about healthcare services, noting that medical facilities in Nigeria may not meet the standards seen in the US or Europe. It advised its citizens to take extra precautions, avoid large gatherings, and enrol in safety programmes like the Smart Traveller Enrolment Programme.
Despite these warnings, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the advisory does not reflect the true picture of security across the country.
In a statement released through his aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister described the US action as a routine precaution based on its internal protocols, rather than evidence of widespread insecurity.
He acknowledged that some areas face security challenges but stressed that there is no breakdown of law and order nationwide, adding that most parts of Nigeria remain peaceful.
Idris highlighted ongoing military operations, intelligence-driven interventions, and improved collaboration among security agencies, noting that these efforts have led to real progress in tackling crime and insecurity.
“Our security agencies are fully engaged in protecting lives and property, and their efforts are yielding visible results,” he said, adding that criminal networks have been disrupted and safety has improved in several communities.
He also reaffirmed that Nigeria remains open for business, investment, and travel, while encouraging foreign partners to engage with Nigerian authorities for more accurate and up-to-date information.
The government further pledged its commitment to sustaining security gains and ensuring the safety of both citizens and visitors.
This is not the first time the US has issued such warnings. In October 2022, it released a similar advisory over threats of terrorist attacks in Abuja, which led to the evacuation of non-essential staff and limited embassy operations at the time.
