US security advisory, bad omen for Nigeria – Peter Obi – Tribune Online

Peter Obi has described the recent security advisory issued by the United States Department of State as a troubling signal for Nigeria, warning that it reflects declining confidence in the country’s security situation.

In a statement titled “US Security Alarm on Nigeria: A Bad Omen,” Obi said the directive allowing non-essential staff at the United States Embassy in Abuja to evacuate should be treated as a national emergency.

“The recent directive by the United States to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria due to rising insecurity is deeply worrisome and should be treated as a national emergency, especially for a country already struggling to attract investors,” he said.

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The advisory, issued on April 8, urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.

The US government classified Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while placing several states under the stricter “Level 4: Do Not Travel” category. Newly added states include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba, bringing the total number of high-risk states to 23.

Obi noted that the development could further damage Nigeria’s already fragile investment climate, stressing that no country can attract investors without guaranteeing safety.

He also referenced Nigeria’s position on the Global Terrorism Index, highlighting worsening insecurity and persistent threats to lives and communities.

According to him, the US directive signals a lack of confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture.

He cited reports of continued attacks, including the killing of a senior army officer in Borno State, as evidence of the deteriorating situation.

“The US directive is a clear signal of declining confidence in our national security architecture. Disturbingly, reports indicate the loss of yet another Army Brigadier General to terrorists in Borno earlier today. A nation where people cannot live, work, worship, or travel safely cannot progress or attract investment,” he said.

Obi criticised political leaders for focusing on power struggles rather than governance, warning that security must be prioritised above politics.

He argued that without safety, economic growth and national development would remain unattainable.

Meanwhile, the United States Mission in Nigeria announced the suspension of visa appointments at its Abuja embassy following the advisory, though operations continue at the Lagos consulate.

In response, the Federal Government, through Information Minister Mohammed Idris, downplayed the concerns, describing the advisory as a routine precaution based on US internal protocols.

He maintained that public institutions across the country remain functional and that there is no disruption to governance or daily life.