US Evacuates Embassy Staff, Flags 23 Nigerian States as High-Risk Zones
The United States government has ordered the departure of non-essential staff and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing worsening security conditions across Nigeria.
In its latest travel advisory, the U.S. warned its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria, highlighting concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and limited healthcare access.
The advisory placed Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while identifying 23 states as “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to heightened security risks.
States in the North-East and North-West—including Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara—were listed over threats linked to terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Other states such as Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Kogi, and Kwara were also flagged due to insecurity and violent unrest.
In the South and South-East, states including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were marked as high-risk areas over rising incidents of crime, kidnapping, and armed violence.
The U.S. warned that security conditions in these areas remain unpredictable, with incidents such as roadside attacks, communal clashes, and violent crimes occurring without warning.
It further noted that terrorist groups continue to pose threats to public spaces, including markets, places of worship, schools, and government facilities.
The advisory also raised concerns about healthcare limitations, urging travelers to take necessary precautions, including arranging adequate medical coverage and emergency plans.
The development reflects increasing international concern over Nigeria’s security situation and its impact on foreign nationals and diplomatic missions.
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