The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a heightened security warning, advising American citizens and embassy staff to steer clear of unofficial visits to Nigerian military bases and government buildings. The alert, posted on the U.S. Mission’s official website on Sunday, comes amid rising global tensions and recent acts of terrorism.
The advisory follows a deadly suicide bombing in Borno State, attributed to Boko Haram, which claimed over 20 lives, as well as ongoing military hostilities between Israel and Iran—including U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
“In light of heightened global security threats, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria has restricted all non-official travel by embassy personnel and their families to Nigerian military or government facilities in Abuja,” the notice stated.
American citizens residing in or visiting Nigeria have been urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly in areas commonly visited by Westerners, expatriates, or government officials.
“Remain alert in public spaces, avoid large crowds, and consider limiting non-essential movement,” the advisory warned. “Be unpredictable in your routines, identify emergency exits in buildings, and revisit your personal security plans.”
This advisory comes after a suicide bomber attacked a busy location in northeastern Nigeria, killing at least 23 people and injuring many others. In response, security forces have intensified surveillance across Borno and nearby regions.
At the same time, global unease has grown due to the U.S. military’s recent strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, carried out in retaliation for Iran’s alleged involvement in attacks against Israel. The situation has sparked continued missile exchanges between the two countries, with Israel’s initial attacks reportedly killing senior Iranian military figures and nuclear experts.
Security experts warn that embassies and Western-affiliated sites in unstable regions like West Africa could become targets for extremists amid these escalating tensions.
The U.S. advisory underlines the need for increased awareness and caution during this period of global unrest, particularly in locations connected to Western governments and organizations.
