NIGERIA SECURITY ALERT - TRAVEL NOT RECOMMENDED FOR U.S CITIZENS
Africa-Related | New York
Threats Of Terrorism
The Travel Advisory for Nigeria has been updated due to a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Abuja, and travel to Abuja is NOT recommended for U.S. citizens at this time.
The United States Mission in Nigeria issued a security alert to its citizens against travel to Nigeria. Here is what you need to know:
Location: Abuja Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria
Event: The Travel Advisory for Nigeria has been updated due to a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Abuja. We recommend U.S. citizens do not travel to Abuja at this time. In addition, on October 27, 2022, the Department ordered the departure of family members of U.S. government employees from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks, following on the October 25 authorization of departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks.
U.S. citizens should consider departing Abuja using available commercial options. U.S. citizens who wish to depart but are unable to secure commercial options to do so can contact the U.S. Consulate in Lagos at LagosFM@state.gov for assistance.
The U.S. Embassy Abuja is only able to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Abuja. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos is providing all routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. U.S. Citizens in Nigeria who require assistance should contact LagosACS@state.gov or +234 1 460 3410.
If you decide to travel to Nigeria:
Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed.
Use caution when walking or driving at night.
Keep a low profile.
Review travel routes and times to vary your predictability.
Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
Review your personal security plans.
Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
Establish a “proof of life” protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
Review the Country Security Report for Nigeria.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Abuja, Nigeria
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area
+234 (9) 461-4328 and after hours +234 (9) 461-4000 press zero
AbujaACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Lagos
2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island
+234 (1) 460-3400 during business hours and after-hours
LagosACS@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP ) to receive Alerts.
Follow USinNigeria on Twitter and Facebook