The US Department of State has told non-emergency US staff and their families at the Abuja Embassy that they can leave the country because security in Nigeria is getting worse.
In a fresh travel advisory on Wednesday, the department warned Americans to think twice before traveling to Nigeria from April 8, 2026, because of crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and unrest.
Overall, Nigeria is now at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” but some states are considered “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”
Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states have now joined the “Do Not Travel” list, making it 23 states where Americans are strongly advised to stay away.
“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory said.
It added: “Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk.”
In the North, Americans are told to avoid Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa because of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also listed due to unrest, crime, and kidnappings.
“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.
“Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning,” the advisory said.
In the South and Southeast, the US warned citizens to avoid Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (except Port Harcourt) because of crime, kidnappings, and unrest.
“Crime is widespread in Southern Nigeria. There is a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and armed gangs,” the advisory added.
The report also said violent crimes like armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnappings for ransom are common, with Americans often seen as rich and targeted.
It warned that terrorist attacks can happen anywhere, from markets and shopping centers to hotels, churches, mosques, and public events.
Health services in Nigeria were also described as limited and unreliable, with most hospitals not up to US or European standards.
Still, the State Department told Americans planning to travel to Nigeria to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, stay alert, avoid protests and large crowds, and set up personal safety and “proof of life” plans.
