U.S. directs staff to evacuate embassy in Abuja, designates 23 Nigerian states as insecure 

The U.S. Department of State has instructed non-essential personnel and their families to leave the U.S. Embassy in Abuja due to increasing security threats in Nigeria.

In a travel warning issued on Wednesday, the department advised Americans to rethink travel plans to Nigeria starting April 8, 2026, highlighting concerns over escalating crime, terrorism, kidnappings, civil unrest, and inadequate healthcare services.

Nigeria is categorized as “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while 23 states have been moved to the more severe “Level 4: Do Not Travel” classification.

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Newly included in the Level 4 designation are Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states, which now join other northern regions like Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and parts of Adamawa, all of which face significant terrorism and kidnapping risks.

Several southern states have also been identified as high-risk due to prevalent crime and unrest, including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers State. Notably, Port Harcourt was specifically excluded from the highest-risk category.

The U.S. government warned that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnappings for ransom are frequent, with American citizens sometimes being deliberately targeted. It also cautioned that terrorist attacks may take place unexpectedly in crowded areas like markets, places of worship, hotels, and public events.

Additionally, the advisory pointed out concerns regarding Nigeria’s healthcare system, indicating that medical services are often inconsistent and fail to meet international standards.

Americans intending to visit Nigeria were encouraged to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), steer clear of protests and large gatherings, and implement clear personal safety measures before and during their visit.