FG insists Nigeria safe as US evacuates embassy staff

The Federal Government has reassured Nigerians and the international community that the country remains safe, despite the United States’ decision to evacuate non-emergency embassy staff and their families from Abuja.

 

The US Department of State had authorised the departure, citing a deteriorating security situation and advising its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria.

 

In an updated travel advisory, Washington placed Nigeria on Level 3: Reconsider Travel, while designating about 23 states as Level 4: Do Not Travel due to risks linked to crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest.

 

The US Embassy in Abuja also suspended visa appointments, though operations at the Consulate in Lagos continue.

 

Reacting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the advisory does not reflect the overall security reality in Nigeria.

 

“While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable,” he said.

 

Idris described the US action as precautionary, based on its internal protocols, rather than evidence of widespread insecurity.

 

He noted that ongoing military operations and intelligence-led interventions have recorded progress in tackling threats across the country.

 

“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident,” he added.

 

The US advisory, however, warned of widespread violent crimes such as armed robbery and kidnapping, and noted that terrorist attacks could occur without warning in public places.

 

It also highlighted concerns about limited healthcare services and urged American citizens to adopt strict safety measures.

 

Despite this, the Federal Government maintained that Nigeria remains open for business, investment and travel, urging foreign partners to engage authorities for accurate and up-to-date information.

 

The development marks the latest in a series of US security advisories on Nigeria, with similar measures issued in 2022 over heightened terror threats in Abuja.