United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a security alert warning Americans to steer clear of non-essential travel to military and government facilities in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, due to increased global security worries.
The advisory, which was released by the US Embassy today, prohibited all embassy staff members and their families from visiting military sites or other government venues in Abuja, except for official purposes.
The embassy urged American citizens residing in or visiting Nigeria to remain vigilant in public places, particularly in locations frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials.
Furthermore, it advised them to avoid huge gatherings, maintain unpredictable routines, and familiarize themselves with emergency exits in buildings.
It also called on them to review their personal security plans and exercise increased caution during their stay in Nigeria.
“Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, US Mission Nigeria informs US citizens that all US Embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja at this time.
“Actions to take: Stay alert in public places, with particular attention to locations and venues where Westerners, expatriates, and government officials frequent.
“Avoid large gatherings and consider limiting unnecessary travel. Avoid predictable routines. Familiarise yourself with emergency exits when you enter buildings. Review your personal security plans,” the advisory stated.
However, irrespective of the restrictions, the embassy said its Consular Section in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remain open and operational.
At the weekend, U.S jets pounded Iranian nuclear sites amid the latter’s ongoing war with Israel. Iran responded to the American attack today with military strikes at a U.S base in Qatar.
These developments have set the volatile Middle East on edge with pro-Iran groups in some countries vowing retaliation against the U.S for supporting Israel in the conflict.
