In light of rising global security tensions, the United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a renewed security advisory, warning American citizens to steer clear of non-essential travel to military and government installations within Abuja.
The advisory, released by the U.S. Embassy on Monday, outlines that all diplomatic personnel, along with their families, are currently under strict instructions to avoid military and government facilities unless their presence is officially required. The directive signals a cautious reassessment of operational safety due to emerging global developments that have increased concerns over potential security risks in and around sensitive areas.
While the embassy did not specify the nature of the global events prompting this action, it emphasized the importance of increased situational awareness and discretion, particularly in locations frequented by foreign nationals, expatriate communities, and high-profile officials.
U.S. citizens residing in or visiting Nigeria have been urged to adopt enhanced personal safety measures. These include minimizing exposure to large public gatherings, avoiding predictable routines, maintaining a low profile, and staying familiar with emergency exits in public and private buildings.
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The advisory underscores a broader precautionary approach amid a climate of international uncertainty, aiming to safeguard U.S. nationals from any potential spillover of geopolitical instability into the region.
US nationals are encouraged to review their personal security plans and exercise increased caution during their stay in Nigeria.
The statement read in part, “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.
“Actions to take: Stay alert in public places, with particular attention to locations and venues where Westerners, expatriates, and government officials frequent.
“Avoid large gatherings and consider limiting unnecessary travel. Avoid predictable routines. Familiarise yourself with emergency exits when you enter buildings. Review your personal security plans.”
Despite the newly imposed security limitations, both the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos continue to operate without interruption.
American citizens requiring assistance or seeking up-to-date information have been encouraged to consult the embassy’s official website for guidance, consular services, and emergency resources.
The continuation of consular operations signals the U.S. Mission’s commitment to maintaining essential services while prioritizing the safety of its citizens and staff amid evolving security dynamics.