USA
Bolatito Mercy
The US has directed non-emergency embassy staff and their families to leave Abuja due to worsening security conditions in Nigeria. The State Department has also updated its travel advisory, adding Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba to the list of states Americans are warned not to visit, bringing the total to 23 out of 36 states under the “Do Not Travel” category.
This move signals heightened concern in Washington, with kidnappings, banditry, and attacks on security forces persisting, particularly in northern Nigeria. The US has highlighted threats from Islamist insurgents in the northeast, criminal gangs in the northwest, and ongoing violence in parts of southern and southeastern Nigeria, including oil-producing regions.
The US embassy in Abuja has been proactive in issuing security alerts, such as cancelling visa appointments and urging citizens to stay indoors during potential protests. In March, the embassy suspended visa services due to protest risks linked to the US-Iran conflict.
The security situation in Nigeria has led to increased caution from international communities. The US has restricted travel to certain areas and advised citizens to exercise increased caution.
Nigeria’s security challenges are multifaceted, with terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest prevalent in various regions. The US government’s travel advisory reflects these concerns.
The US has also added Niger to its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list due to terrorism, kidnapping, and limited emergency services. Other African countries on this list include Libya, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Somalia.
These advisories impact tourism, investment, and diplomatic engagement, highlighting the need for situational awareness and adherence to official guidance.
