The US Department of State has issued a travel advisory, cautioning American citizens about specific areas to avoid when planning trips to Nigeria.
This advisory stems from concerns related to various risks, including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the presence of armed groups.
In their recent update, the US Department of State highlighted the regions in Nigeria with an elevated risk level and strongly discouraged travel to these areas:
Avoid Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa state due to concerns regarding terrorism and kidnapping.Steer clear of Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara state due to the threat of kidnapping.
Exercise caution in Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (except for Port Harcourt) due to concerns related to crime, kidnapping, and the presence of armed groups.
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Additionally, the advisory noted that Nigeria experiences "violent crime – such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking, roadside banditry, and rape – throughout the country."
For those who still choose to travel to Nigeria, the US Department of State recommends carrying proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa if required. Regarding Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states, the US emphasized that the security situation in these regions is "fluid and unpredictable" due to widespread terrorist activity, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.
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