US Orders Partial Embassy Evacuation, Flags 23 Nigerian States as High-Risk Zones

By Danielle Hamper 

The U.S. Department of State has authorized the departure of non-essential staff and their families from the United States Embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security landscape across Nigeria.

In a revised travel advisory released on April 8, 2026, the Department placed Nigeria under a Level 3: Reconsider Travel warning, while designating several states as Level 4: Do Not Travel, the highest risk category. The move underscores growing international concern over insecurity, marked by rising incidents of terrorism, kidnapping, armed crime, and civil unrest.

According to the advisory, the decision to allow embassy staff departures reflects “a deteriorating security situation,” signaling fears over the safety of foreign nationals, particularly American citizens.

Expanding High-Risk Zones

The latest update added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba to the “Do Not Travel” list, bringing the total to 23 states. In northern Nigeria, areas such as Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa remain under strict warning due to persistent terrorist activity, banditry, and communal violence.

The Department noted that these regions face unpredictable security conditions, including:

• Armed attacks and roadside banditry
• Inter-communal clashes
• Sudden security operations by government forces

“Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning,” the advisory cautioned, highlighting the volatility of the situation.

Southern Nigeria Also Under Scrutiny

Beyond the North, the advisory paints a troubling picture of Southern and Southeastern Nigeria. States including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were flagged for high levels of crime, kidnapping, and unrest.

Despite being economic hubs, these regions continue to grapple with:

• Organized criminal gangs
• Violent protests
• Frequent kidnapping-for-ransom incidents

The Department warned that crime remains “widespread,” with foreign nationals often targeted due to perceived wealth.

Terror Threats and Public Safety Concerns

The advisory also emphasized the persistent threat of terrorism nationwide, noting that attacks could occur in public places such as:

• Markets and shopping malls
• Hotels and hospitality venues
• Religious centers
• Large gatherings and events

This broad threat environment, it said, makes even routine travel potentially dangerous.

Healthcare System Limitations

In addition to security risks, the report raised concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare system, describing it as limited and inconsistent. Medical facilities, it noted, often fall short of U.S. or European standards, posing added risk in emergencies.

Advisory to U.S. Citizens

The State Department urged Americans who must travel to Nigeria to take strict precautions, including enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates. It also advised:

• Avoiding protests and large crowds
• Maintaining heightened situational awareness
• Establishing emergency communication and “proof of life” protocols

A Broader Signal

The partial evacuation and updated advisory reflect not just routine caution, but a significant escalation in international concern about Nigeria’s security environment. For a country grappling with multifaceted challenges—from insurgency in the North to criminal networks in the South—the warning reinforces the urgent need for coordinated and effective security reforms.