The U.S government has released a fresh travel advisory, urging its citizens to reconsider traveling to Nigeria, citing growing concerns over safety and healthcare challenges.
In a move that has sparked surprise among many observers, the advisory highlights Nigeria as a high-risk destination, mainly due to kidnapping, terrorism, civil unrest, and poor medical services.
This warning comes amid a broader review of security across several African nations.
The advisory, published on the website of the U.S Mission in Nigeria, places the country under Level Three: Reconsider Travel.
However, 18 Nigerian states are listed under Level Four: Do Not Travel, the highest threat category in the advisory system.
“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inconsistent availability of health care services,” the statement read.
“All locations carry significant security risks.”
The U.S government listed states such as Borno, Yobe, and northern Adamawa as high-risk due to terrorism and kidnappings.
Other states like Kogi, Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara were flagged for organized crimes and armed gangs. Meanwhile, Abia, Delta, Enugu, and Rivers were noted for violent criminal activity and kidnapping.
Furthermore, the advisory drew attention to the limited access to healthcare, stating that most hospitals in Nigeria are not equipped to the same standard as those in the U.S or Europe.
“U.S citizens should not expect the same level of health care to be available in Nigeria as they do in the United States,” it stated.
“Many medicines are not available. This includes common medications for diabetes or asthma.”
In addition, the advisory warns travelers to come prepared with personal medication and complete vaccinations before traveling.
It emphasized the need for medical evacuation insurance due to unreliable emergency services.
“Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Most hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S health insurance,” it added.
The U.S Mission also flagged an increase in terrorist threats and kidnapping for ransom, especially targeting dual citizens and individuals seen as wealthy.
These attacks, it says, can happen with little or no warning at public places like markets, restaurants, places of worship, and even schools.
Many believe this shows a growing need for Nigerian authorities to address internal security gaps and improve healthcare standards nationwide.
Moreover, the inclusion of Nigeria alongside other flagged African countries such as Libya, South Sudan, and Chad signals broader security issues across the region.
