The United States Department of State has instructed non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families to leave the U.S. Embassy in Abuja due to escalating security risks across Nigeria.
In an updated travel advisory issued on April 8, 2026, Americans were advised to reconsider travel to the country because of crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. The advisory classified Nigeria at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while 23 states were designated as “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”
The newly added Level 4 states include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba, joining other northern and southern states where travel is strongly discouraged.
The advisory highlighted that terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and civil unrest are major threats, with insurgents and criminal gangs frequently targeting U.S. citizens perceived as wealthy. Violent incidents have been reported at markets, hotels, places of worship, and public gatherings.
The Department of State urged U.S. citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, maintain personal safety measures, and establish “proof of life” protocols.
Northern states listed in the Level 4 category include Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa, while Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also flagged due to unrest and crime. In southern and southeastern regions, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were cited for high crime rates, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
The advisory further noted that healthcare services in Nigeria are limited and may not meet U.S. or European standards.
U.S. citizens in Nigeria or planning to travel to the country were strongly urged to exercise heightened caution in all activities and follow guidance from local authorities.
