US Issues Security Alert: Advises Citizens to Avoid Military, Government Facilities in Abuja

The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a critical security alert, cautioning its citizens to steer clear of military and government facilities in Abuja. The advisory, released on Sunday, June 22, 2025, and reiterated on Monday, June 23, 2025, cites “increased security concerns arising from current global developments” as the primary reason for the warning.

The alert explicitly states that all U.S. Embassy employees and their families are now prohibited from non-official travel to any Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja. This directive underscores a heightened level of caution being exercised by the U.S. government regarding the safety of its personnel and citizens in the Nigerian capital.

While the specific nature of the “global developments” was not detailed in the public advisory, it follows recent reports of escalating tensions in the Middle East, including U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian facilities, and subsequent threats of retaliation. The U.S. State Department had also issued a broader “worldwide caution” for Americans, indicating potential increased security risks for those traveling or living abroad due to the conflict between Israel and Iran.

The U.S. Mission has urged its citizens in Nigeria to maintain a high level of situational awareness in public places, particularly in locations and venues frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials. Additional recommendations include:

• Avoiding large gatherings and considering limiting unnecessary travel.
• Avoiding predictable routines to reduce vulnerability.
• Familiarizing themselves with emergency exits when entering buildings.
• Reviewing personal security plans.

Despite the security restrictions for its staff and the warning to citizens, the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remain open and fully operational to provide essential services to American citizens. The mission further encouraged U.S. nationals to monitor its official website for ongoing updates and to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely security notifications.