The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security alert over a potential terrorist threat targeting American facilities and schools linked to the United States in the country.
In a notice posted on its website on Monday, the embassy said the advisory was intended to inform U.S. citizens in Nigeria about potential security risks and urged them to take extra precautions when visiting American diplomatic missions and affiliated institutions.
The embassy had earlier warned citizens of a possible Abuja protest over the Middle East conflict
The embassy specifically advised American nationals to exercise heightened vigilance when travelling to its offices in Abuja and Lagos, as well as schools associated with the United States.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens of a possible terrorist threat against U.S. facilities and U.S.-affiliated schools in Nigeria.
“The Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens take additional precautions when travelling to the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, and U.S.-affiliated schools, to include varying times and routes,” the statement read.
The mission further advised American citizens to remain security-conscious by avoiding predictable routines, changing travel routes and schedules, and keeping their phones charged in case of emergencies.
“Be aware of your surroundings, keep a low profile, review your personal security plans, vary your regular routes, keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency, stay alert in public places, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and familiarise yourself with emergency exits when entering buildings,” the notice added.
The embassy did not disclose the specific source of the suspected threat.
The advisory comes amid a broader global security warning issued by the United States following recent military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which has reportedly responded with missile and drone strikes targeting U.S.-aligned nations in the region.
It also follows protests in Lagos and several northern states by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, who condemned the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during strikes allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
The situation has been further complicated by reports that Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, wife of Iran’s supreme leader, died from injuries sustained during recent strikes on her residence in Tehran.
The warning also comes months after U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes targeting jihadist groups in Nigeria on Christmas Day.
