Nigeria’s Federal Government on Thursday, 9th of April, 2026 dismissed concerns arising from a recent United States advisory authorising the departure of non-emergency personnel from its Abuja embassy, describing the move as a routine precaution that does not reflect Nigeria’s overall security reality.
The government reassured citizens and international partners that public institutions across the country remain fully operational, with no disruption to governance, economic activities, or daily life.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, speaking through his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, stated that “there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable.”
The U.S. Department of State had issued an updated travel advisory on April 8, 2026, advising Americans to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest, while classifying the overall advisory at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel.” The department also added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to its “Do Not Travel” list, bringing the total number of such states to 23.
The advisory cited frequent violent crime including armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom noting that Americans were often perceived as wealthy and therefore frequent targets.
Abuja’s pushback was firm and pointed. Minister Idris highlighted that sustained security operations combining military action, intelligence-led interventions, and closer inter-agency coordination are producing tangible gains, with recent efforts disrupting criminal networks, limiting armed groups, and improving safety in vulnerable communities.
While recognising the right of nations to issue travel advisories based on their own assessments, the Federal Government called for balanced and up-to-date reporting that reflects the progress being made on the ground, urging international partners to engage directly with Nigerian authorities for a more comprehensive picture.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining Nigeria as a safe and welcoming destination for both citizens and visitors.
