Insecurity US orders voluntary departure of non-emergency staff from Abuja Embassy
Insecurity US orders voluntary departure of non-emergency staff from Abuja Embassy
By Idun Maximus
The United States Department of State, has ordered the voluntary departure of non-emergency United States government employees and family members from the United States Embassy, Abuja.
This was even as the Federal Government said the travel advisory issued by the United States Government did not reflect the overall security situation across the country.
In a security alert issued on April 8, 2026, the United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria said the authorisation was as a result of the deteriorating security situation in Abuja.
The United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria said: “On April 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of State authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members from U.S. Embassy, Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation. The U.S. Embassy in Abuja will remain open but will have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. The Embassy, in consultation with the State Department, will reassess this status regularly. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will continue to provide routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria.”
The United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria further said the Department of State Travel Advisory for Nigeria remained at Level 3, recommending that travellers reconsidered travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inconsistent availability of health care services.
The United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria advised United States nationals on actions to take which included: “Have a personal emergency action plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
“U.S. citizens in Abuja should consider departing if you do not need to remain for emergency or essential purposes.
“Take advantage of commercial transportation options, if you wish to depart Nigeria. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and accessible in case of emergency departure. Keep family and friends informed of your travel plans and whereabouts. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates. Monitor local media for breaking news on the security situation. Avoid crowds and demonstrations.”
The United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria likewise directed United States nationals to be aware of their surroundings, keep a low profile, review their personal security plans and keep cell phone charged in case of emergency.
Other actions as directed by the United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria were that United States nationals should vary travel routes and times, especially when going to and from the airport.
“For additional information about threats and risks to travelers in Nigeria, please visit the Nigeria Destination Information page on travel.state.gov,” the United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria also said.
Reacting to the travel advisory, the Federal Government noted that the United States advisory authorising the departure of non-emergency personnel from its embassy in Abuja.
The government described it as a precautionary measure based on internal protocols.
It reassured Nigerians and international partners that public institutions remain fully operational, with no disruption to governance, economic activity, or daily life.
In the statement issued by Rabiu Ibrahim, the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government also highlighted ongoing, measurable gains in security operations across multiple regions, driven by coordinated military efforts, intelligence-led interventions, and strengthened inter-agency collaboration.
“These efforts continue to reduce threats in affected areas while sustaining stability in the majority of the country.
“The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the U.S. decision as a routine precaution guided by internal protocols, noting that it does not reflect the overall security situation across 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 added that sustained security operations, combining military action, intelligence-led interventions, and closer inter-agency coordination, are producing tangible gains. Recent efforts in several affected regions have disrupted criminal networks, limited the activities of armed groups, and improved safety in vulnerable communities.
“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident.
“The Minister also noted that Nigeria remains open for business, travel, and investment, with ongoing economic reforms strengthening investor confidence and improving the country’s global standing. He stressed that international partners and investors continue to engage actively with Nigeria, reflecting confidence in the country’s stability and long-term prospects”, Ibrahim stated.
Acknowledging that every country has the right to issue travel advisories based on its own assessment, the Federal Government also urged balanced and up-to-date reporting that reflects the progress being made.
“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation on the ground”, Idris said.
The Federal Government however reiterated its commitment to sustaining security improvements, protecting citizens and visitors, and assured the international community that Nigeria remained a safe and welcoming destination for all.
