The government of Nigeria has slammed the latest United States (U.S) travel advisory, describing the warning as “unbalanced.”
The Nigerian government claimed that the country’s security gains achieved in recent months have been overlooked by the U.S.
The rebuttal follows a Wednesday announcement from the U.S. State Department, which authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel from its Abuja embassy, citing a “deteriorating security situation.”
The latest U.S. advisory specifically added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to the highest risk category.
However, the government of Nigeria slammed the U.S travel advisory, maintaining that these designations are based on “internal U.S. protocols” rather than an accurate reflection of the current ground reality.
In a statement released on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the Federal Government urged international partners to provide a more nuanced perspective on the country’s domestic climate.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, through a spokesperson, emphasized that while certain regions face challenges, the “majority of the country is safe” for business and travel.
The government argued that the U.S. “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” status does not account for the Nigerian security gains made through intensified military operations in the North-Central and North-East zones.
“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,” Idris stated.
Highlighting ongoing efforts to tackle security threats, the government pointed to sustained gains recorded through coordinated military operations, intelligence-driven interventions, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
According to Idris, recent operations in affected regions have successfully disrupted criminal networks, curtailed the activities of armed groups, and improved safety in vulnerable communities.
“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident,” he said.
The government further underscored Nigeria’s openness to global engagement, reaffirming that the country remains a viable destination for business, travel, and investment.
Idris noted that ongoing economic reforms are boosting investor confidence and strengthening Nigeria’s international standing, with foreign partners continuing to engage actively with the country.
While recognising the right of nations to issue travel advisories based on their assessments, the Federal Government called for balanced and up-to-date reporting that reflects the progress being made on the ground.
“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation,” the minister added.
Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the government assured both citizens and visitors of its resolve to sustain security improvements and maintain Nigeria’s status as a safe and welcoming destination.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that the minister’s comments comes few hours after terrorists invaded a Borno State military base, killing several soldiers.
The comments also come after a week of heightened tension in Plateau State, including the killing of about 28 persons on Palm Sunday.
Recall also that the U.S government and the Nigerian government have been collaborating to solve the security crisis in Nigeria.
The collaboration included the formation of a joint working security group and even the bombing of an ISIS enclave in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025.
