The United States Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency government employees and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security situation across Nigeria. In an advisory issued on April 8, 2026, the US government said the decision followed a review of conditions, which it described as worsening, while maintaining Nigeria at Level 3 on its travel risk scale, urging citizens to reconsider travel.
The advisory highlighted persistent threats including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and limited access to healthcare in some areas. It discouraged travel to several regions, particularly in the north and parts of the south-east and south-south, naming states such as Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and parts of Rivers as high-risk. Newly added to the highest-risk category are Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states.
The move comes amid growing international concern over Nigeria’s security outlook. In its recent Global Terrorism Index released on March 19, 2026, the Institute for Economics & Peace ranked Nigeria as the fourth most affected country by terrorism. The report indicated a sharp rise in fatalities linked to terrorist activities, with deaths increasing by 46 per cent in 2025.
For Nigeria’s economy, the US advisory carries significant implications. Foreign direct investment decisions are influenced by security perceptions, and a high-risk designation can deter capital flows. The evacuation of diplomatic personnel may signal to international businesses that operational risks are elevated, potentially affecting expansion plans and staffing decisions. The advisory also affects tourism, educational exchanges, and professional services that rely on international mobility.
The advisory warned that violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom remain common across Nigeria, with foreign nationals often targeted. It also highlighted the risk of terrorist attacks in public places, including markets, shopping centres, hotels, and places of worship. Despite the warnings, the State Department advised Americans who still plan to travel to Nigeria to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for real-time updates and to establish personal safety measures.
