The Federal Government has dismissed concerns over Nigeria’s security outlook, insisting the country remains stable and safe, despite the decision by the United States to withdraw non-essential personnel from its embassy in Abuja.
This reassurance came on Thursday after the US government authorised the evacuation of non-emergency staff and their families, citing security concerns affecting several parts of the country.
Earlier, the US Department of State had announced the move and temporarily suspended visa appointments at its Abuja embassy, directing applicants to await further communication on rescheduled dates. However, it clarified that visa services would continue at its Lagos consulate, while emergency consular services remain accessible by appointment.
In its latest travel advisory, the US government urged its citizens to reconsider travelling to Nigeria, citing risks linked to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping and inconsistent availability of healthcare services. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning,” it added.
Reacting to the development, the Federal Government maintained that the advisory does not reflect the broader reality of security conditions across the country.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the US action as precautionary rather than indicative of a nationwide crisis.
He stated, “While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable.”
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The minister pointed to ongoing military and intelligence-led operations across different regions, noting that recent efforts have significantly disrupted criminal networks and improved safety in affected communities.
“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident,” he said.
Idris also reaffirmed Nigeria’s openness to global engagement, stressing that the country remains a viable destination for investment, tourism, and business.
“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation on the ground,” he said.
The government reiterated its commitment to strengthening security nationwide and assured both citizens and foreign nationals of continued efforts to safeguard lives and property.
The latest advisory mirrors similar actions taken in the past. In October 2022, the US government issued warnings over potential terrorist threats in Abuja, leading to the temporary withdrawal of embassy staff and restrictions on operations, with services shifted largely to Lagos.
Despite these recurring advisories, Nigerian authorities maintain that security challenges, though present, are being actively addressed without constituting a nationwide breakdown of order.
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