The United States has authorised non-emergency government employees and their families to leave its embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security situation, and has issued a heightened travel advisory listing 23 states as “Do Not Travel.”
The US Department of State announced the measure on Wednesday, raising Nigeria’s overall travel advisory to Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest and inconsistent health care.
“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorised 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.
It added five more states — Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba — to the existing “Level 4: Do Not Travel” list, bringing the total to 23.
The advisory warned of widespread violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking and kidnapping for ransom, noting that U.S. citizens are often perceived as wealthy targets. Terrorist attacks remain a threat at markets, shopping centres, hotels, places of worship and public gatherings.
“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk,” it said.
The State Department urged American citizens to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and establish personal safety protocols.
