Insecurity: U.S. Joins UK, Directs Americans Not To Visit 12 States In Nigeria

Barely 48 hours after the United Kingdom warned its citizens against visiting some states in Nigeria, the United States Government has followed suit by directing its citizens not to travel to at least 12 states in the country, citing security concerns.

It said those states were risky due to the perpetuation of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime

The travel advisory reads: “Nigeria has lifted stay at home orders, and resumed some transportation options and business operations.

“Do Not Travel to: Borno and Yobe States and Northern Adamawa State due to terrorism; Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, and Yobe states due to kidnapping.

“Coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime,” it stated.

The U.S. further advised Americans in the country to take caution while they move around the country, citing “the threat of indiscriminate violence.”

Among other things, it urged its citizens to observe local news report as well as avoid demonstrations and political gatherings.

The U.S. travel advisory further reads: “Violent crime – such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, and rape – is common throughout the country.

“Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria, especially in the Northeast. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting shopping centers, malls, markets, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, government installations, transportation hubs, and other places where crowds gather.

“Sporadic violence occurs between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas.

“There is maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea.

“The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Nigeria due to security conditions.

“If you decide to travel to Nigeria:

– Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa if needed.

– Exercise caution when walking or driving at night.

– Review travel routes and times to vary your predictability.

– Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

– Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

– Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.

– Monitor local media for breaking events, and be prepared to adjust your plans.

– Be aware of your surroundings.

– Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.

– Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.

– Review your personal security plans.”

Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has maintained that it was addressing the security challenges in the country, according to a Presidential spokesperson, Femi Adesina.