US Travel Advisory Lists 23 Nigerian States as Unsafe, Urges Citizens to Reconsider Visits

The United States Department of State has classified 23 states across Nigeria as high-risk zones, warning non-essential embassy personnel and their families to avoid them amid rising insecurity.

In an advisory updated on April 8, 2026, the embassy urged U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to persistent threats such as crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.

Nigeria remains at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while several states have been upgraded to “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” including Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba.

The State Department announced staff movement restrictions, stating:

“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorised non-emergency US government employees and UA government employee family members to leave US embassy in Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation.”

It further cautioned travellers:

“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk.”

States under “Do Not Travel”:

Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, Northern Adamawa.

The advisory explained:

“The security situation in these states is unstable and uncertain due to civil unrest… widespread violence between communities and armed crime, including kidnapping and roadside banditry.”

Other high-risk states include Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara, mainly due to kidnapping and instability.

Southern states such as Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were also flagged. The department warned:

“Crime is widespread in Southern Nigeria. There is a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and armed gangs.”

The advisory added that violent crimes like armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping for ransom are common, with foreigners often targeted.

It also highlighted the risk of terrorist attacks in crowded public places, including markets, hotels, and religious centres, and noted that healthcare services remain inconsistent and below global standards.

Travellers were advised to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), avoid demonstrations, and take precautionary measures, including maintaining “proof of life” protocols.

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