US Embassy in Nigeria authorises departure of non-emergency staff and families...

The US Department of State has authorised non-emergency US government employees and their families to leave the US Embassy in Abuja due to a deteriorating security situation across Nigeria.

In an updated travel advisory, the Department cited rising crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest as reasons for heightened caution.

CBI News reports that Americans are now advised to “reconsider travel” to the country, with some states designated as “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

The advisory added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to the Level 4 list, bringing the total to 23 states where travel is strongly discouraged.

Other northern states on the warning include Borno, Kogi, Yobe, northern Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara, citing risks of terrorism, crime, and civil unrest.

In Southern Nigeria, US citizens are urged to avoid Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (excluding Port Harcourt) due to violent crime, kidnapping, and protests.

The advisory noted that armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom are widespread, with US citizens often targeted.

Terrorist attacks remain a threat at markets, hotels, places of worship, and public gatherings.

Health services are described as limited and inconsistent, with medical facilities generally not meeting US or European standards.

The Department of State recommended that US citizens enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, exercise caution while traveling, avoid demonstrations, and establish personal safety and “proof of life” protocols.

“Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning,” the advisory added, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the situation.