The U.S. Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency embassy staff and their families from Abuja and expanded its list of high-risk states, in a significant escalation of its travel warning on Nigeria amid worsening security and health concerns.
While maintaining its Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory, U.S. authorities say the latest update reflects a deteriorating environment marked by rising insecurity, widespread kidnapping, and fragile healthcare systems, prompting operational changes at the U.S. Embassy.
New additions to the “Do Not Travel” list, including Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states, underscore growing concern over the widening spread of violence and instability across the country.
The advisory paints a grim picture of security conditions, warning that violent crime is pervasive across Nigeria. Incidents such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, and hostage-taking occur frequently, while kidnapping for ransom has become a major threat. Criminal groups increasingly target foreigners and dual nationals, often ambushing travelers on highways or blocking roads to abduct victims.
U.S. officials also warn of a sustained threat of terrorism, noting that extremist groups continue to plan and execute attacks, sometimes in collaboration with local armed gangs. These attacks may occur without warning and often target public places where people gather, including markets, shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, schools, government buildings, and transportation hubs.
In Nigeria’s North-East, the situation remains particularly severe, with terrorist activities contributing to the displacement of about two million people, alongside continued attacks on civilians, security forces, and humanitarian operations.
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The U.S. government has issued strict warnings against travel to several regions classified as high-risk due to terrorism, crime, and civil unrest. These include Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Niger, Plateau, Kogi, Kwara, Taraba, and northern Adamawa states, where terrorism and kidnapping are widespread. States such as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Bauchi, and Gombe are also considered dangerous due to persistent unrest and criminal activities. In the South-East and South-South regions, states including Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta, Bayelsa, Enugu, and Rivers, except for Port Harcourt, are similarly flagged due to crime, kidnapping, and instability.
Beyond terrorism, the advisory highlights ongoing civil unrest and armed gang activity, particularly in the Niger Delta and South-East regions. Armed groups remain active in criminal operations, including kidnappings and attacks on security forces, while violent clashes between farming and herding communities continue to fuel instability in rural areas. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning, further increasing unpredictability.
The advisory also raises serious concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare system, warning that it falls significantly short of U.S. and European standards. Medical facilities are often under-equipped, essential medications may be unavailable, and emergency services are unreliable in many areas. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals remain a widespread problem, while hospitals frequently require immediate cash payments and may not accept foreign insurance.
Travelers are therefore advised to bring sufficient prescription and over-the-counter medications for the duration of their stay, ensure all vaccinations are up to date, and take preventive measures against malaria, which remains highly prevalent in Nigeria.
For those who still choose to travel despite the warning, the U.S. government recommends strict safety measures. Travelers are encouraged to enroll in its alert system to receive updates, carry proper identification at all times, and maintain a low profile in public spaces. They are also advised to avoid predictable travel patterns, remain vigilant in crowded areas, and refrain from resisting during robbery attempts. Avoiding protests and large gatherings is strongly recommended, while establishing emergency communication plans, including proof-of-life protocols, is considered essential.
The advisory further urges travelers to obtain comprehensive medical insurance, including evacuation coverage, as emergency assistance may be limited. Visitors are warned not to rely on U.S. government intervention during crises and are encouraged to prepare independent evacuation plans.
The latest warning underscores growing international concern about Nigeria’s security environment and may have implications for foreign investment, diplomatic presence, and global perception. As the country continues to grapple with terrorism, banditry, and systemic healthcare challenges, the advisory highlights the urgent need for sustained efforts to improve safety and stability nationwide.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
