United States Department of State has issued an updated travel advisory on Nigeria, maintaining the country at Level 3 Reconsider Travel.
In the advisory released on April 8, 2026, the Department of State cited ongoing concerns over crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and limited healthcare services across parts of the country.
As part of the update, the U.S government has also authorised the departure of non-emergency personnel and their families from the U.S Embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security situation.
The advisory highlights that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom remain widespread, with foreign nationals particularly Americans often targeted.
Several states have been placed under the highest warning level, “Do Not Travel.” These include Borno, Yobe, and northern Adamawa due to terrorism threats, as well as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states over concerns of unrest, banditry, and kidnapping.
In the southern region, states such as Abia, Anambra, Imo, and Rivers excluding Port Harcourt were also flagged due to rising insecurity and criminal activity.
The Department further warned of possible terrorist attacks in public places, including markets, shopping malls, schools, places of worship, and transportation hubs.
It also raised concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting limited access to quality medical care, shortages of essential drugs, and unreliable emergency services.
Despite these concerns, travelers who must visit Nigeria are advised to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, known as STEP, for real-time updates and emergency assistance.
The advisory comes amid ongoing security challenges in parts of the country, with authorities continuing efforts to address threats posed by armed groups and criminal networks.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
