FG dismisses US security advisory, says Nigeria remains stable

FG dismisses US security advisory, says Nigeria remains stable

The Federal Government has reassured Nigerians and the international community of the country’s stability following a recent advisory by the United States authorising the departure of non-emergency personnel from its embassy in Abuja.

In a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the minister, Mohammed Idris, the ministry said that there had been no disruption to governance, economic activities, or daily life, despite the advisory.

“The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the U.S. decision as a routine precaution guided by internal protocols, noting that it does not reflect the overall security situation across Nigeria,” the statement partly read.

The minister explained that the US decision was guided by its internal protocols and should not be interpreted as an indication of a general breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.

“While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable,” he was quoted as saying.

He added that recent efforts had led to the disruption of criminal networks, reduced the activities of armed groups, and improved safety in vulnerable communities.

“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident,” the minister added.

The government also reiterated that Nigeria remains open to business, travel, and investment, stressing that ongoing economic reforms continue to boost investor confidence and strengthen the country’s global standing.

Idris added that international partners and investors are maintaining active engagement with Nigeria, which reflects confidence in its stability and long-term prospects.

While acknowledging the right of countries to issue travel advisories based on their own assessments, the Federal Government called for balanced and up-to-date reporting.

“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation on the ground,” he said.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to improving security, protecting citizens and visitors, and maintaining Nigeria as a safe and welcoming destination.

US advisory

U.S. government authorised the departure of non-essential staff from its Abuja embassy, citing what it described as a deteriorating security situation across Nigeria. The authorisation, granted on Wednesday, was contained in an updated travel advisory.

The advisory, issued on April 8, 2026, showed that Nigeria remains on Level 3, with American citizens urged to reconsider travelling to the country due to escalating insecurity driven by terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and civil unrest.

According to U.S. authorities, the situation has worsened in several regions, prompting the addition of Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to the “Do Not Travel” list.

The advisory further disclosed that the U.S. government had “authorised the departure of non-emergency staff and family members from its embassy in Abuja, citing worsening security conditions.”

It warned Americans against travelling to multiple high-risk states. Areas identified under terrorism, crime, and kidnapping threats include Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa, where insurgent activities and violent clashes persist.

Other states such as Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also flagged due to ongoing unrest, armed banditry, and widespread abductions.

In southern Nigeria, the advisory cautioned against visits to Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt), citing criminal gangs, separatist-linked violence, and frequent kidnappings.

U.S. authorities painted a grim picture of nationwide insecurity, noting that violent crimes including armed robbery, assault, carjacking, rape, and hostage-taking are prevalent.

“Kidnapping for ransom,” the advisory noted, “occurs frequently, particularly targeting dual nationals and foreigners perceived to be wealthy.”