The government of the United States has again told its citizens, diplomats, employees, and their families not to go to Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, out of fear of possible terror attacks.
SaharaReporters said that the US government had already told its non-emergency staff to leave Nigeria right away.
This order came just three days after US officials said there was a high risk of terrorist attacks in Nigeria, especially in the capital city of Abuja.
It said that because of this, until further notice, the US Embassies in the country will offer less service.
In another circular that came out on Thursday, the US government told its citizens to stay away from Nigeria and told anyone who went there to stay hidden and have a plan for what to do in case of an emergency.
The statement says, “Event: The Travel Advisory for Nigeria has been changed because terrorist attacks are more likely to happen in Abuja.” We advise people from the United States not to go to Abuja right now. Also, on October 27, 2022, the Department told the families of U.S. government workers in Abuja to leave because of the increased risk of terrorist attacks. This came after the Department on October 25 gave permission for non-emergency U.S. government workers and their families to leave Abuja because of the increased risk of terrorist attacks.
“Americans should think about leaving Abuja using one of the commercial options that are available. U.S. citizens who want to leave but can’t find a commercial way to do so can get help from the U.S. Consulate in Lagos by sending an email to LagosFM@state.gov.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja can only help U.S. citizens in Abuja in case of an emergency. U.S. citizens in Nigeria can get all kinds of services from the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos. U.S. citizens in Nigeria who need help should call +234 1 460 3410 or email LagosACS@state.gov.
“If you decide to go to Nigeria, make sure you have the right ID, like a U.S. passport with a valid Nigerian visa, if you need one. Be careful if you walk or drive at night. Stay out of sight. Review your travel plans and times to make things less predictable. Keep an eye on the news in your area and be ready to change your plans. Be aware of what’s going on around you.
Stay alert in places where Westerners often go. Stay away from protests and big political meetings. Look over your plans for your own safety. Have plans for getting out of the way that don’t depend on the U.S. government. Set up a “proof of life” plan with your loved ones so that if you are taken hostage, they will know what questions to ask the people holding you to make sure you are still alive (and to rule out a hoax). Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get alerts and make it easier to find you in an emergency. Get health insurance that covers everything, including medical evacuation.”
