Insecurity: US orders staff to leave embassy in Nigeria, flags 23 states

The United States Department of State has directed non-emergency employees and family members to depart the US Embassy in Abuja, citing worsening security conditions across Nigeria.

The directive was contained in a travel advisory issued on Wednesday by the Department of State of the United States.

In the advisory, the department urged Americans to reconsider travel to Nigeria beginning April 8, 2026, due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and limited healthcare services.

The advisory classified the overall travel advisory for Nigeria as “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while some states are at “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

Newly added to the Level 4 list are Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states, alongside others in the North such as Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa, where terrorism and kidnapping risks remain high.

Southern states including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were also flagged due to widespread crime and unrest.

The advisory warned that violent crimes—armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom—are prevalent, with U.S. citizens often targeted.

It also noted that terrorist attacks could occur at markets, places of worship, hotels, and public gatherings, while healthcare services remain inconsistent and below international standards.

Americans planning travel to Nigeria are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and establish personal safety protocols.