The United States Department of State has ordered the evacuation of non-emergency personnel and family members of its staff from its embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security situation across Nigeria.
In a revised travel advisory, the U.S. government placed Nigeria at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, warning of widespread risks including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent access to healthcare services.
According to the directive, non-essential workers and dependents of U.S. government employees have been instructed to begin departing the country as a precautionary measure.
The advisory highlighted that several regions face heightened risks. Northern states such as Borno, Yobe, and parts of Adamawa were designated Level 4: Do Not Travel, due to terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. Other states including Plateau, Niger, and Taraba were also flagged for similar concerns.
In the North-West, states like Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were cited for unrest, banditry, and kidnapping. The advisory warned that the security situation in these areas remains volatile, with incidents of armed violence and security operations occurring without prior notice.
