The United States has decided to repatriate some of its embassy staff in Abuja, as well as the families concerned, due to growing security concerns.

According to local sources, this measure targets non-essential employees of the American diplomatic mission in the Nigerian capital, amid a deteriorating security situation.

In a travel advisory published Wednesday, the U.S. State Department specifies that this decision, made on April 8, 2026, follows a reassessment of the situation in Nigeria.

Washington is warning of risks related to crime, terrorism, and civil unrest in several regions of the country. US authorities are maintaining Nigeria at level 3 of their travel advisory system, urging citizens to reconsider all travel, while some areas remain classified at level 4, where travel is strongly discouraged.

The statement specifically highlights the dangers of kidnappings, armed violence and unequal access to health services.

The State Department says it has authorized the departure of non-essential personnel and their families "due to the deteriorating security situation." The advisory identifies several high-risk areas across the country plagued by terrorism, banditry, and violent crime.

It also highlights the frequency of acts such as armed robberies, assaults, vehicle hijackings and hostage takings, with foreigners often being targeted for ransom demands.

The threat from terrorist groups, notably Boko Haram, is also mentioned, with risks of attacks against public places such as markets, shopping centers, schools or places of worship.

Moreover, tensions persist in certain southern regions, particularly in the Niger Delta and the southeast, where armed groups and protest movements operate.

The report also mentions shortcomings in the health system, including a lack of medicines, limitations in emergency services, and the frequent requirement for advance payments.

US authorities are also warning that their capacity to provide consular assistance may be reduced in certain areas, urging their citizens to avoid them.

In response, the Nigerian government sought to reassure the public and international partners. The Minister of Information and National Guidance, Mohammed Idris, affirmed that institutions are functioning normally and that the overall situation in the country remains stable.

In a statement relayed by his advisor Rabiu Ibrahim, he described the American decision as a "usual" precautionary measure, linked to internal protocols, and not reflecting the general reality on the ground.

"Despite localized security challenges, there is no widespread deterioration of public order, and the majority of the territory remains safe," he assured.

The minister also highlighted the progress made through ongoing security operations, particularly through increased coordination of security forces and intelligence-based actions.

He finally reaffirmed the authorities' commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens and visitors, assuring that Nigeria remains a welcoming country.