The US Department of State has released updated security recommendations for its citizens. In the recent advisory, the department strongly urged Americans to reconsider any plans for traveling to Nigeria, citing concerns related to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the presence of armed gangs.
According to the statement, the department specifically cautioned against traveling to certain Nigerian states due to various security risks. These include Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states, where terrorism and kidnapping are prevalent. Additionally, the advisory discouraged travel to Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to the high incidence of kidnapping. Moreover, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (excluding Port Harcourt) were flagged due to concerns related to crime, kidnapping, and the presence of armed criminal groups.
The advisory further emphasized the prevalence of violent crime throughout the entire country, encompassing activities such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking, roadside banditry, and rape.
Despite these warnings, the US Department of State provided guidance for citizens who opt to proceed with travel plans to Nigeria. It recommended that travelers carry proper identification, including a valid US passport with an up-to-date Nigerian visa if required. Regarding Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states, the department underscored the fluid and unpredictable security situation in these areas due to widespread terrorist activities, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping. Travelers were advised that security operations to counter these threats may occur without advance notice.
