U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Nigeria Over Security Concerns

Washington/Abuja, April 9, 2026 - The United States has urged its citizens to exercise heightened caution when traveling to Nigeria, citing persistent security threats including terrorism, kidnappings, and armed violence. In a statement released on April 8, the United States Embassy in Nigeria warned that several regions of the country remain unstable and advised Americans to avoid travel to high-risk areas. The advisory highlighted the possibility of attacks in public spaces such as markets, hotels, places of worship, schools, and other crowded locations. U.S. authorities also indicated that some areas have been classified under the highest risk level, with strong recommendations against all travel. As part of precautionary measures, the embassy announced the suspension of certain visa processing services, urging applicants to monitor their communications for updates on delays or changes. In addition, the U.S. government has begun reducing its diplomatic presence, with instructions for some personnel stationed in Abuja to depart the country amid the evolving security situation. According to the advisory, multiple Nigerian states have been designated as particularly dangerous, including Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, Taraba, as well as Borno and Yobe in the northeast-regions affected by insurgent activity and communal violence. The United States maintains Nigeria at an elevated travel advisory level overall, warning that deteriorating security conditions could have broader implications, including potential impacts on economic activity and foreign investment.