The United States Department of State has placed 23 Nigerian states on its highest travel risk category, citing escalating insecurity, while ordering the withdrawal of non-essential staff and their families from its embassy in Abuja.
The directive, contained in a travel advisory released on Wednesday, also urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria over concerns bordering on terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and civil unrest.
Nigeria was classified under the “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” category, while 23 states were designated as “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” the most severe warning issued by the U.S. government.
Among the states newly added to the blacklist are Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba.
They join Borno, Yobe, Kogi and parts of Adamawa already considered high-risk due to persistent terrorist activities and abductions.
The advisory further flagged security challenges in several southern states, including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers, although Port Harcourt was excluded from the highest-risk classification.
According to the State Department, violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking and kidnapping for ransom remain widespread across the country, with foreign nationals, including Americans, sometimes deliberately targeted.
It warned that terrorist attacks could occur without warning in public places such as markets, hotels, places of worship and large gatherings.
The U.S. also raised concerns over Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting that medical services in parts of the country remain inconsistent and may fall short of international standards.
As part of precautionary measures, American citizens were advised to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations and crowded areas, and adopt strict personal security protocols.
The latest move underscores growing international concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, amid rising incidents of insurgency, banditry and organised crime across several regions.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
