By George Omagbemi Sylvester
The United States government has ordered non‑emergency personnel and family members at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja to depart Nigeria amid rising security concerns, while also issuing an updated travel advisory that designates 23 Nigerian states as areas Americans should not travel to.
This development was reported on April 9, 2026, as the U.S. Department of State cited escalating threats from crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest in many parts of the country, advising U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria.
The advisory came with a list of 23 high‑risk states spread across Nigeria’s Northeast, Northwest and Southern regions, reflecting deep concern over deteriorating security conditions that could endanger foreign nationals and U.S. government staff.
In addition to the departure order, the travel advisory reinforces longstanding guidance about security risks in Nigeria, where armed violence, kidnappings and instability have prompted previous warnings.
The U.S. stance adds diplomatic pressure on Abuja to accelerate reforms and improve protection for both residents and visitors.
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