The United States government has taken significant steps regarding the safety of its personnel in Nigeria, ordering the evacuation of non-emergency staff and their family members from its embassy in Abuja. This directive, issued by the US Department of State, stems from a marked deterioration of security conditions across Nigeria. The overall Travel Advisory for Nigeria remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, cautioning American citizens about pervasive issues such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the inconsistent availability of adequate health care services, with certain regions presenting heightened risks.

The US government specifically warned against travel to several northern and southern states. Northern states like Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa were designated at Level 4, indicating a 'Do Not Travel' advisory due to severe threats of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Additionally, North-western states including Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were highlighted for unrest, crime, and kidnapping. The advisory explicitly stated that security in these regions is unstable and uncertain due to civil unrest, widespread violence between communities, armed crime, including kidnapping and roadside banditry, and the potential for unannounced security operations.

In Southern Nigeria, the advisory cautioned against travel to Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (excluding Port Harcourt) due to prevalent crime, kidnapping, and unrest. It underscored the high risk of violent protests and the presence of armed gangs throughout the southern region. The advisory further stressed that terrorist attacks remain a tangible threat nationwide, potentially targeting markets, shopping centers, hotels, places of worship, and public gatherings. Violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom are widespread, with US citizens frequently targeted due to the perception of their wealth.

An updated travel advisory further solidified these warnings, adding Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to the ‘Do not travel’ list specifically citing terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. This adjustment followed recent violent incidents, including an attack on March 29 in Jos North that resulted in over 20 fatalities and an incident on Tuesday where gunmen reportedly killed at least 20 people in Niger State and scores in Kebbi. These incidents underscore the persistent security challenges. Echoing these concerns, the United Kingdom had also previously advised its citizens against non-essential travel to 21 Nigerian states, including Niger, Plateau, and Kebbi.

The security situation in Nigeria is also reflected in global assessments. The 2026 Global Terrorism Index (GTI) report ranked Nigeria as the fourth most unsafe country globally, noting a significant increase in fatalities. According to the index, Nigeria experienced the largest surge in terrorism-related deaths last year, with attacks increasing by 43 percent compared to 2024. The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram were identified as responsible for a substantial 82.8 percent of all terrorism deaths in the country in 2025. This ranking places Nigeria behind Pakistan, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic.

Beyond security, health services in Nigeria were described as limited and inconsistent, generally failing to meet US or European standards. The State Department strongly urged US citizens considering travel to Nigeria to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for critical updates. Travelers were also advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and establish personal safety and “proof of life” protocols before and during their stay.