The Federal Government has reassured Nigerians and the international community that the country remains safe, despite a recent move by the United States to evacuate non-emergency staff and their families from its embassy in Abuja.
The US Department of State had earlier authorised the departure, citing security concerns across several parts of Nigeria. It also suspended visa appointments at the embassy in Abuja, though operations continue at the US Consulate in Lagos.
In an updated travel advisory, the US urged its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria, maintaining the country at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while placing about 23 states under “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to risks linked to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
States affected include Borno, Yobe, Kogi, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt), and several others across the North, Middle Belt, and South-East. The advisory warned that the security situation in these areas remains “unstable and unpredictable,” with threats such as armed robbery, banditry, and terrorist attacks.
Reacting to the development, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the advisory as a precautionary measure that does not reflect the overall reality in Nigeria.
“While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable,” he said.
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Idris highlighted ongoing efforts by security agencies, including coordinated military operations and intelligence-driven interventions, which he said have led to noticeable improvements in safety across affected regions.
He also stressed that Nigeria remains open for business, investment, and tourism, urging foreign partners to engage directly with Nigerian authorities for accurate and up-to-date information.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while continuing to strengthen security nationwide, assuring both citizens and visitors that Nigeria remains a safe and welcoming destination.
