The United States’ Mission in Nigeria has advised all Americans to avoid military and government facilities in Abuja. The Federal Government has responded, assuring that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors. On Sunday, the mission advised on its website that, due to global events, embassy staff are prohibited from unofficially visiting any government
The United States’ Mission in Nigeria has advised all Americans to avoid military and government facilities in Abuja. The Federal Government has responded, assuring that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors.
On Sunday, the mission advised on its website that, due to global events, embassy staff are prohibited from unofficially visiting any government or military facilities in Abuja.
“Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, U.S. Mission Nigeria informs U.S. citizens that all U.S.
“Embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja at this time,” the mission stated.
The mission instructed its citizens to remain vigilant in public places, particularly at locations and venues frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials.
American nationals are advised to avoid large gatherings, limit non-essential travel, avoid predictable routines, familiarise themselves with emergency exits in buildings, and review their personal security plans.
The consular sections of the embassy in Abuja and the consulate general in Lagos remained open despite the warning, the mission stated.
Federal Government Rebuffs Warning
The Federal Government has assured that Abuja remains safe after the U.S. Embassy advised its staff to limit non-official visits to military and government sites in the capital.
On Monday, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris assured that Nigeria’s security agencies are actively ensuring the safety of the FCT and the country. “Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
“Nigeria’s security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the continued safety and protection of all residents of the FCT and across the country,” Idris stated.
Idris denied that the advisory was related to any specific threat in the capital.
“We understand that the US advisory is based on general global developments and does not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the FCT.
“We reiterate to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm,” Idris explained.
The minister further noted that the nation’s security architecture has been proactive and successful in addressing threats.
“Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat,” he said.
The minister called on citizens to continue with their lawful activities, adding that public cooperation remains vital to maintaining peace and security.
“We encourage citizens to conduct their lawful activities without fear, while also remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities,” he said.
The Federal Government pledged to maintain Abuja’s status as one of the world’s safest capitals.
Americans Warned Worldwide
Meanwhile, the US State Department has issued a “worldwide caution” for Americans, saying the conflict in the Middle East could put those travelling or living abroad at increased security risk.
“The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East. There is the potential for demonstrations against US citizens and interests abroad,” the State Department’s security alert said.
