United States Issues Detailed Travel Advisory for Nigeria Citing Security Concerns
The United States government has released a comprehensive travel advisory urging American citizens to reconsider travel plans to Nigeria due to escalating security threats across the country. The advisory, published on February 1, 2026, highlights multiple risks including terrorism, kidnapping, armed gangs, civil unrest, and inconsistent healthcare services that pose significant dangers to both locals and foreign visitors.
Specific States Identified as High-Risk Zones
American officials have identified numerous Nigerian states where security risks are particularly elevated, categorizing them based on the predominant threats in each region:
Areas with Terrorism and Kidnapping Threats:
- Borno State
- Yobe State
- Kogi State
- Northern Adamawa State
Regions with Significant Kidnapping Risks:
- Bauchi State
- Gombe State
- Kaduna State
- Kano State
- Katsina State
- Sokoto State
- Zamfara State
Southern States Affected by Crime and Armed Gangs:
- Abia State
- Anambra State
- Bayelsa State
- Delta State
- Enugu State
- Imo State
- Rivers State (excluding Port Harcourt)
Public Areas Vulnerable to Terrorist Attacks
The advisory provides specific details about public locations where terrorist groups are actively plotting attacks, often collaborating with local criminal networks to expand their operational reach. These attacks can occur with minimal warning, according to security assessments.
Nine categories of public areas identified as potential targets:
- Shopping centers and malls
- Traditional markets
- Hotels and hospitality establishments
- Places of worship including churches and mosques
- Restaurants and bars
- Educational institutions and schools
- Government buildings and offices
- Transportation hubs and terminals
- Any public gathering spaces with crowds
Northeast Nigeria: Primary Terrorist Theater
Security analysis indicates that terrorist groups operating in Nigeria's Northeast region have developed specific targeting patterns, frequently attacking:
- Humanitarian aid camps and facilities
- Security force installations and personnel
- Religious institutions during services
- Educational facilities and boarding schools
- Government administrative buildings
- Entertainment venues and social gathering spots
- Road travelers and transportation routes
Southern Nigeria: Civil Unrest and Armed Criminality
The advisory notes that Southern Nigeria, particularly the Niger Delta and Southeast regions, experiences significant challenges with civil unrest and armed criminal gangs. These groups engage in various illegal activities including:
- Kidnapping for ransom operations
- Assaults on Nigerian security services
- Armed robbery and carjacking incidents
- Hostage-taking situations
- Roadside banditry on interstate highways
American officials specifically warned that kidnapping gangs often target dual-national citizens visiting Nigeria and U.S. citizens perceived as wealthy, with attacks frequently occurring on major transportation routes between states.
Recent Security Developments and Context
The travel advisory comes amid reports that suspected terrorists in northern Nigeria have begun relocating following U.S. military strikes conducted on December 25. Community leaders have observed movements as armed groups migrate in smaller numbers after the Christmas Day operations.
President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States military carried out targeted strikes against Islamic State terrorists in northwestern Nigeria, with the Nigerian federal government acknowledging support for these operations against terrorist strongholds.
The comprehensive advisory concludes by emphasizing that Nigeria remains a high-risk destination requiring careful consideration before travel, with travelers urged to review the complete security guidance before making any decisions about visiting the country.
