The United States Department of State has authorised non-emergency personnel and their families to depart the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security environment across Nigeria.
The decision follows growing concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest affecting multiple regions of the country.
In an updated travel advisory issued on Wednesday, American citizens were urged to reconsider travel to Nigeria, with several states placed under “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to heightened security risks.
According to the advisory, Plateau State, Jigawa State, Kwara State, Niger State, and Taraba State were newly added to the list, bringing the total number of states with severe travel restrictions to 23.
“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory stated.
The notice also warned that terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and inconsistent healthcare availability continue to pose risks.
In northern Nigeria, the advisory highlighted Borno State, Kogi State, Yobe State, and northern Adamawa State among areas facing heightened threats, alongside several others affected by civil unrest and banditry.
Southern and southeastern states were also flagged, including Abia State, Anambra State, Bayelsa State, Delta State, Enugu State, Imo State, and Rivers State, where authorities cited crime, kidnappings, and violent protests as key concerns.
The Department further warned that U.S. citizens may be viewed as high-value targets, noting that armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnappings for ransom remain prevalent. It added that terrorist attacks could occur in public spaces such as markets, hotels, and places of worship.
Health infrastructure across Nigeria was also described as limited and inconsistent, with facilities often not meeting U.S. or European standards.
The advisory urged Americans considering travel to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations, and maintain heightened personal security awareness.
Analysts say the latest advisory underscores ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, where civil unrest, terrorism, and criminal activity continue to intersect, posing risks to both foreign nationals and residents.
