The United States Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security environment across Nigeria.
In an updated travel advisory released on Wednesday, the department said the decision, effective April 8, 2026, reflects growing concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest in parts of the country.
The advisory maintained Nigeria’s overall status at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while designating several states as “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” the highest risk category.
According to the update, additional states including Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba were added to the restricted list, raising the number of high-risk states to 23.
The department warned that security conditions in many of these areas remain volatile, with threats ranging from armed banditry and communal violence to terrorist activity and kidnapping for ransom. It noted that security operations by Nigerian authorities could occur without prior notice, further heightening uncertainty.
In northern Nigeria, states such as Borno, Yobe and parts of Adamawa were highlighted for persistent terrorism risks, while others including Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Zamfara were flagged for widespread unrest, crime and abductions.
The advisory also extended concerns to parts of southern and southeastern Nigeria, listing Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers states — excluding Port Harcourt — as areas where crime, kidnapping and civil disturbances pose significant risks.
It stressed that violent crimes, including armed robbery, carjacking and kidnapping, remain prevalent nationwide, with foreign nationals, particularly Americans, often perceived as high-value targets.
Beyond security threats, the department pointed to challenges within Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting that medical services are limited and may not meet international standards in emergency situations.
Despite the warnings, the US government urged its citizens who must travel to Nigeria to take precautionary measures, including enrolling in official travel monitoring programmes, avoiding large gatherings and protests, and establishing personal safety protocols.
The latest advisory underscores growing international concern about Nigeria’s security landscape, even as authorities continue efforts to address threats across multiple regions of the country.
