US orders embassy staff to leave Nigeria, lists 23 states as no go area

The United States Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security situation across Nigeria.

In an updated travel advisory issued on Wednesday, the department said the directive took effect from April 8, 2026, warning American citizens to reconsider travel to the country over rising concerns including crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and inconsistent healthcare services.

Nigeria remains under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory, while 23 states have been placed on the highest warning level — “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”
The newly added states to the “Do Not Travel” category include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba.

According to the advisory, northern states affected by the Level 4 warning include Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and parts of Adamawa, due to terrorism, armed crime, and kidnapping.

In the South and Southeast, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states — excluding Port Harcourt — were also listed over concerns of violent crime, kidnapping and civil unrest.

“The security situation in these areas remains unstable and unpredictable,” the State Department said, noting frequent incidents of communal clashes, armed banditry, and sudden security operations.

It added that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom are widespread, with U.S. citizens often targeted due to perceptions of wealth.

The department also warned that terrorist attacks could occur without warning at public places including markets, shopping centres, hotels, worship centres, and large gatherings.

It further highlighted concerns over Nigeria’s healthcare system, describing medical services as limited and inconsistent, often falling short of U.S. or European standards.

The State Department advised Americans who must travel to Nigeria to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates, avoid protests and crowded places, and establish personal safety measures, including “proof of life” protocols.