The U.S. Department of State has authorised the withdrawal of non-essential staff and their families from its embassy in Abuja following a sharp deterioration in the security situation across Nigeria. The move forms part of a broader safety response as threats intensify nationwide.
In a fresh travel advisory issued on April 8, 2026, the department placed Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” and warned its citizens against visiting 23 states categorised under the highest risk level. The advisory cited widespread insecurity driven by terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and civil unrest.
Brandspur Politics reports that five additional states—Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba—were newly added to the “Do Not Travel” list, signalling an expansion of high-risk zones. Northern states such as Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and parts of Adamawa were also highlighted due to persistent terrorist activity, while Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Bauchi, and Gombe were flagged over ongoing violence and criminal operations.
In the southern and southeastern regions, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states—excluding Port Harcourt—were listed due to rising incidents of kidnapping, armed gangs, and civil disturbances. The advisory noted that the security environment in these areas remains volatile, with attacks and enforcement operations capable of occurring without warning.
The department further warned that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and ransom kidnappings are prevalent across the country, with foreign nationals often targeted. It added that terrorist threats remain active in public places including markets, shopping centres, hotels, and places of worship.
Concerns were also raised about the country’s healthcare system, described as inconsistent and below international standards in several locations, potentially complicating emergency response for travellers.
The U.S. government urged its citizens to enrol in its travel monitoring programme, avoid large gatherings, maintain heightened situational awareness, and put in place personal safety measures, including emergency communication plans.
This latest directive underscores growing international concern over Nigeria’s security landscape and reflects increasing caution among foreign governments regarding travel and diplomatic presence in the country.
