US Embassy Evacuates Non-Emergency Staff from Abuja as Nigeria Reassures Public of Safety
ABUJA – Nigeria’s Federal Government has moved to calm public concerns after the United States ordered the evacuation of non‑emergency personnel and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing heightened security risks across 23 states.
The decision followed an updated travel advisory from the US State Department urging Americans to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. In response, visa appointments at the US embassy in Abuja have been temporarily suspended.
But Nigeria’s Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the notion that the American move reflects the true state of security in the country. Speaking to reporters, he described the evacuation as a “precautionary step” rather than an accurate assessment of the overall situation.
“Nigeria remains safe and secure,” Idris said. He urged both Nigerian citizens and the international community to remain calm, stressing that the government is fully committed to protecting lives and property across the nation.
The US advisory, issued last week, highlighted risks in several states—particularly in the north and middle‑belt regions—where armed banditry, kidnappings for ransom, and militant attacks have persisted. It also noted the potential for civil unrest in various parts of the country.
While the embassy’s consular services in Abuja have been disrupted, there has been no immediate indication of further closures or staff reductions at the US consulate in Lagos.
Minister Idris reaffirmed that the Federal Government continues to work with international partners to address security challenges, but he reiterated that the US action should not be interpreted as a blanket indictment of Nigeria’s safety.
“We have made significant progress in combating insecurity,” Idris said. “We ask our friends and allies to see the full picture, not isolated precautionary measures.”
The government has not announced any reciprocal steps regarding US diplomatic facilities in Nigeria.
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