The Federal Government of Nigeria has responded to the United States’ mission warning citizens to stay away from military areas and government properties in Abuja.
The alert, released on Sunday, comes amid heightened global tensions, with the U.S. embassy urging its nationals in Nigeria to exercise increased vigilance and adopt proactive safety measures.
According to the directive, all embassy staff and their family members are now barred from entering military or government sites in the capital except for official purposes.
The mission also advised U.S. citizens to maintain heightened awareness, especially in areas often visited by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials.
“Stay alert in public places and be mindful of surroundings. Avoid large gatherings and limit unnecessary travel,” the advisory stated.
It further recommended that individuals “vary daily routines to reduce predictability,” and “familiarise oneself with emergency exits in buildings.”
Abuja is safe
Reacting, the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, said there was no security threat in the federal capital territory.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken note of the latest security advisory issued by the Embassy of the United States, restricting its staff and their families from non-official travel to military sites or other government facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
“While the Federal Government recognises and respects the right of foreign missions, including the U.S. Embassy, to issue travel advisories to their citizens, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike,” he said.
He added that Nigeria’s security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the continued safety and protection of all residents of the FCT and across the country.
“The current security architecture in Abuja has not only been proactive but has also recorded significant successes in detecting, preventing, and neutralising threats.
“We understand that the U.S. advisory is based on general global developments and does not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the FCT. However, we reiterate to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm.
“The Federal Government wishes to reaffirm its commitment to the safety of all residents and to maintaining Abuja’s reputation as one of the most secure capitals in the world. Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat,” Idris clarified.
He urged citizens to conduct their lawful activities without fear, while also remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
