Nigerian Government Dismisses U.S. Embassy Security Advisory, Reaffirms Abuja’s Safety

The Nigerian government has dismissed a recent security advisory issued by the United States Embassy in Abuja, assuring residents, visitors, and diplomats that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) remains safe and secure.

In a statement released on Monday, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, responded to the U.S. Embassy’s decision to restrict non-official travel for its staff and their families to only military and government facilities within Abuja.

Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that the U.S. Mission had issued a heightened security alert advising its personnel and American citizens to avoid unofficial visits to Nigerian military and government sites due to increased global security risks.

The advisory followed a deadly suicide bombing in Borno State, attributed to Boko Haram, which claimed at least 23 lives, and coincided with growing international tensions, including U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.

Despite acknowledging the right of foreign missions to issue travel advisories, Minister Idris emphasized there was no credible or imminent local threat to justify concern in Abuja.

“The Federal Government has taken note of the latest security advisory issued by the U.S. Embassy,” Idris stated. “While we recognize and respect the Embassy’s prerogative to caution its citizens, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for all residents and visitors.”

He praised the efforts of Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies, noting they have made “significant progress in detecting, preventing, and neutralizing threats” within the capital and across the country.

Idris suggested the U.S. advisory was influenced more by global geopolitical developments than by any verified intelligence of an impending threat in Nigeria.

“Nigeria’s security architecture remains robust and proactive. There is no cause for alarm,” he said. “We urge diplomatic missions, development partners, investors, and the general public to remain calm and continue their activities without fear.”

The Minister reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all individuals in Abuja and beyond. While calling for public vigilance, he encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.

“Abuja continues to rank among the most secure capital cities in the world,” Idris said. “Our security agencies remain on high alert and are fully prepared to respond to any potential threat.”

Abuja has been the subject of multiple foreign security advisories in the past, often prompting anxiety among residents. The Nigerian government has consistently reassured the public of its capacity to maintain peace and security in the capital.