By Olatunbosun Obafemi
The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a security alert warning American citizens to avoid non-essential travel to military and government facilities in Abuja due to heightened global security concerns.
In a statement released Monday, the US Embassy said all personnel and their families are now prohibited from visiting military sites or other government venues in the capital unless for official purposes. The advisory follows unspecified global developments that have triggered increased caution around sensitive locations.
“Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, US Mission Nigeria informs US citizens that all US Embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja at this time,” the embassy stated.
American citizens in Nigeria are urged to remain alert in public places, especially in areas frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials. The embassy also advised avoiding large gatherings, maintaining unpredictable routines, limiting unnecessary travel, and being aware of emergency exits in buildings.
US nationals are encouraged to review their personal security plans and exercise increased caution throughout their stay in Nigeria.
Despite the movement restrictions, the Consular Sections of the US Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remain open and operational. US citizens seeking assistance or more information are directed to the embassy’s official website.
