US issues travel advisory warning citizens against visiting Nigeria over security, health risks

The United States government has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to reconsider visiting Nigeria due to rising security threats, including terrorism, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inadequate healthcare services.

The warning, part of a broader security review for travellers to Africa, places Nigeria among 12 high-risk African nations, including Somalia, Libya, Burkina Faso, South Sudan, and Niger.

The advisory categorises travel risks into four levels, with Nigeria falling under Level Three (“Reconsider Travel”) due to widespread crime, civil unrest, and terrorism.

However, 18 Nigerian states were designated as Level Four (“Do Not Travel”)—the most severe warning—due to extreme security threats. These include Borno, Yobe, and northern Adamawa states (terrorism and kidnapping); Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, and Zamfara states (kidnapping); and Abia, Anambra, Delta, and Rivers states (crime, armed gangs, and kidnapping).

The US Mission in Nigeria emphasised that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and sexual assault are prevalent across the country.

Kidnapping-for-ransom was highlighted as a major concern, with criminal gangs frequently targeting wealthy individuals, dual nationals, and travellers on interstate highways. The advisory also noted the inconsistent availability of healthcare services as an additional risk.

While US citizens are not banned from travelling to Nigeria, the government strongly discourages visits to high-risk areas and urges heightened caution nationwide. The statement warned that security conditions could deteriorate without notice, making emergency assistance limited in many regions.

This travel advisory follows increasing reports of insecurity in Nigeria, including frequent abductions, terrorist activities in the northeast, and gang-related violence in the south.

The US government advised travellers to review personal security plans, avoid nighttime travel, and monitor local news for updates on threats. Similar warnings have been issued by other nations, reflecting growing international concern over Nigeria’s security challenges.

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cc: Daily Post Ng