The United States government has issued a strong travel warning advising its citizens against visiting 18 states in Nigeria due to widespread threats, including terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and unreliable healthcare services.
The travel advisory, released by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria and posted on its official website, urged Americans to reconsider traveling to Nigeria entirely, stating that security conditions across the country pose serious risks.
“Due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed groups, and inconsistent access to healthcare, travel to Nigeria should be reconsidered,” the notice read. “Some areas present even greater danger. Overall, all regions carry significant security risks.”
States Under Level 4 – “Do Not Travel” Alert
Eighteen states were listed under Level 4, the highest alert level, with a recommendation to completely avoid travel to these areas.
High threat of terrorism and kidnapping:
- Borno
- Yobe
- Kogi
- Northern Adamawa
Increased risk of kidnapping:
- Bauchi
- Gombe
- Kaduna
- Kano
- Katsina
- Sokoto
- Zamfara
Concerns over crime, kidnapping, and armed violence:
- Abia
- Anambra
- Bayelsa
- Delta
- Enugu
- Imo
- Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt)
The advisory also highlighted serious concerns about the state of healthcare in Nigeria. According to the statement, American citizens should not expect access to the same quality of healthcare available in the United States. It noted frequent shortages of essential medicines, unreliable emergency services, and the risk of encountering counterfeit drugs.
U.S. travelers who still choose to visit Nigeria were advised to:
- Bring all necessary medications
- Ensure all vaccinations are current
- Secure medical evacuation insurance
- Have backup plans in case of emergencies
The U.S. government also encouraged travelers to stay alert, carry valid identification, avoid large crowds or gatherings, and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely updates and enable authorities to locate them during emergencies.
