Insecurity: US Withdraws Embassy Staff, Warns Citizens Against Nigeria Travel

The US Department of State has authorised the departure of non-essential personnel and their families from the United States Embassy in Abuja, citing worsening security conditions across Nigeria, in a move that underscores growing international concern over the country’s safety landscape.

In an updated travel advisory released on Wednesday, the department urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria, highlighting risks including terrorism, kidnapping, armed crime and civil unrest. The advisory, which takes effect from April 8, 2026, places Nigeria under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” classification, with several states elevated to the highest warning level, “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

The latest update expands the list of high-risk states to 23, with newly added areas including Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba. The warning reflects persistent insecurity across various regions, particularly in the North-East and North-West, where insurgency, banditry and communal violence have remained recurring challenges for over a decade.

According to the advisory, states such as Borno, Yobe and parts of Adamawa continue to face threats from extremist groups, while areas including Kaduna, Katsina and Zamfara are plagued by armed banditry and kidnappings. In the southern and southeastern regions, including Abia, Imo and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt), concerns centre on criminal gangs, violent protests and abductions.

The State Department noted that Americans are often targeted due to perceived wealth, warning of widespread incidents of carjacking, armed robbery and ransom kidnappings. It also flagged concerns over Nigeria’s healthcare system, describing services as inconsistent and often below international standards.

The development comes amid heightened security alerts within Nigeria, following recent attacks in parts of Plateau and Borno states. Analysts say the evacuation directive, though limited, sends a strong diplomatic signal and could impact foreign investment and international travel.

The US government advised its citizens to enrol in safety monitoring programmes, avoid large gatherings and maintain heightened personal security awareness while in the country.