The Federal Government has played down a recent travel advisory by the US Department of State authorising the departure of non-emergency personnel from its embassy in Abuja, describing the move as a precaution that does not reflect the overall security situation in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the government said public institutions remain fully operational, with no disruption to governance, economic activity, or daily life across the country. It added that the advisory should be viewed within the context of internal protocols guiding such decisions by foreign missions.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the U.S. action was routine and not indicative of a broader breakdown of security nationwide.
“While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable,” he said.
The government also pointed to what it described as ongoing improvements in security across several regions, attributing the gains to coordinated military operations, intelligence-led interventions, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration. According to the statement, these efforts have disrupted criminal networks and reduced the activities of armed groups in affected areas.
“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident,” Idris added.
The response comes amid heightened international concern following the updated U.S. advisory, which cited risks including crime, terrorism, and civil unrest in parts of Nigeria. The Federal Government, however, maintained that such challenges are being actively addressed and are not representative of conditions nationwide.
Officials also emphasised that Nigeria remains open to business, travel, and investment, noting that ongoing economic reforms are aimed at strengthening investor confidence and improving the country’s global outlook. The government said international partners continue to engage with Nigeria, reflecting sustained interest in its economic prospects.
While acknowledging the right of countries to issue travel advisories based on their own assessments, the minister called for more balanced reporting.
“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation on the ground,” he said.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to improving security, safeguarding citizens and visitors, and maintaining stability across the country.
