Further to what it considered a deteriorating security situation in the country, on April 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of State authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members from U.S. Embassy Abuja.
The Mission however, noted that “The U.S. Embassy in Abuja will remain open but will have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. The Embassy, in consultation with the State Department, will reassess this status regularly. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will continue to provide routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria.
The issued alert added that “The Department of State Travel Advisory for Nigeria remains at Level 3, recommending travelers reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inconsistent availability of health care services.
Accordingly, the Mission advised US citizens to as a matter of safety, take the following actions;
“Have a personal emergency action plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
U.S. citizens in Abuja should consider departing if you do not need to remain for emergency or essential purposes.
Take advantage of commercial transportation options, if you wish to depart Nigeria.
Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and accessible in case of emergency departure.
Keep family and friends informed of your travel plans and whereabouts.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
Monitor local media for breaking news on the security situation.
Avoid crowds and demonstrations.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Keep a low profile.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency.
Vary travel routes and times, especially when going to and from the airport.
Efforts to get the views of the Nigerian Minister of Information on the issued alert failed at press time.
Business Hilights.ng recalls that every US security alerts to its citizens in every country stem from intelligence and surveillance.
