The United States (US) Department of State has authorised non‑essential staff and family members to leave its embassy in Abuja, citing Nigeria’s worsening security climate.
In a travel advisory released on Wednesday, Washington urged Americans to reconsider travel to Nigeria from 8 April 2026, warning of crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest.
The overall advisory was set at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, with 23 states now classified as Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Five states, Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba, were newly added to the “Do Not Travel” list, joining regions already flagged for high risks of violence, terrorism and banditry.
The advisory stated that security operations may occur without warning and that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking and kidnapping for ransom remain widespread.
Northern states including Borno, Yobe, Kogi and parts of Adamawa were singled out for terrorist threats, while Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano and Zamfara were marked for unrest and criminal activity.
In the south, Abia, Anambra, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were listed due to kidnapping and violent protests.
The State Department also warned that health services in Nigeria are limited and inconsistent, often falling short of international standards.
Americans travelling to the country were urged to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations, and establish personal safety protocols.
“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized 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.
“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk.
“Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.
“Crime is widespread in Southern Nigeria. There is a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and armed gangs,” the advisory read.