US Orders Staff to Leave Nigeria Embassy, Lists 23 States As ‘Do Not Travel’

The United States Department of State has authorised non-emergency government employees and their families to leave the US Embassy in Abuja immediately.

NaijaChoice News reports that the directive, issued on April 8, 2026, follows a fresh assessment of the worsening security situation across Nigeria. The embassy update comes as the overall travel advisory for the country stays at Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

Officials cited crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest and patchy healthcare services as major risks. Some parts of the country now carry the highest Level 4: Do Not Travel tag.

The department added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba states to the “Do Not Travel” list. This brings the total to 23 states where Americans are strongly urged to stay away.

In the northern states of Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe and northern Adamawa, the warning points to terrorism, crime and kidnapping. Security forces often conduct operations without notice in these areas.

Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara states also fall under Level 4 because of widespread communal violence, banditry and roadside attacks.

In the South and South-East, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers states – except Port Harcourt – are flagged over rampant kidnapping, armed gangs and violent protests.

The advisory notes that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking and ransom kidnappings remain common nationwide. Americans and dual nationals are often seen as soft targets. Terrorist groups continue to threaten public places including markets, hotels, places of worship and transport hubs.

Healthcare remains a serious concern. Most Nigerian facilities do not meet US standards, essential drugs are sometimes unavailable and emergency services are limited.

The US Mission in Nigeria has urged American citizens already in the country to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for real-time alerts. It also advised them to avoid large gatherings, review personal security plans and prepare “proof of life” protocols in case of hostage situations.

The development underscores the persistent security challenges Nigeria grapples with despite ongoing military and police operations in troubled zones. Many Nigerians have long called for stronger measures to tackle banditry in the North-West, insurgency in the North-East and separatist tensions in the South-East.

No immediate reaction from the Nigerian government was available as at press time. The advisory is likely to affect perceptions of safety among foreign investors and the Nigerian diaspora planning visits home.