Following the tension being generated by the US travel advisory, concerning the plot by terrorists to attack Abuja, United States government has once more ordered family members of its employees in Abuja to leave the city with immediate effect.
The warning is contained in the updated version of the travel advisory issued by the US Consulate in Nigeria.
The US mission says it was ready to evacuate its citizens from Nigeria over terror fear, and the embassy asked employees’ family members to leave Abuja.
It stated that there is a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in the FCT, which made the consulate to recommended that US citizens to avoid the city at the moment.
“The Travel Advisory for Nigeria has been updated due to a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Abuja. We recommend U.S. citizens do not travel to Abuja at this time. In addition, on October 27, 2022, the Department ordered the departure of family members of U.S. government employees from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks, following on the October 25 authorization of departure of non-emergency, U.S. government employees and family members from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks,” read a notice on the US embassy website.
“The travel adversary warned US citizens to consider leaving the FCT as a top priority adding that those that are unable to secure commercial travel means should contact the Lagos US Consulate.
“U.S. citizens should consider departing Abuja using available commercial options. U.S. citizens who wish to depart but are unable to secure commercial options to do so can contact the U.S. Consulate in Lagos at LagosFM@state.gov for assistance.
“The U.S. Embassy Abuja is only able to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Abuja. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos is providing all routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. U.S. Citizens in Nigeria who require assistance should contact LagosACS@state.gov or +234 1 460 3410.”
The advisory urged the US citizens willing to travel to the country or remain in same to follow specific security guidelines including carrying proper identification-US passport with a current Nigerian visa.
They were also “to use caution while walking or driving at night, keep a low profile, review route and times to vary predictability, have evacuation plans that do not rely on US government, be aware of surroundings and among others, monitor local media for breaking events.”
In the same vein, the United Kingdom government also added its concern to her citizens in their updated advisory titled, ‘Leave Abuja’ warning issued by the US government.
“In a follow-up to the October 26 warning issued by the UK government, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, FCDC, of the British High Commission, has advised all British citizens to avoid all but essential travels to Abuja following indications of alleged heightened threat of terror attacks in the city.
“The office warns British citizens to stay alert and avoid non-essential travels within the city while following local news and security advice.
“British nationals are advised to stay alert, avoid non-essential travel within the city and follow the local news and advice of security authorities. The British High Commission remains open for essential services and the travel advice will constantly be reviewed to make sure it reflects the current situation in Abuja and Nigeria.”
The new UK travel advisory also warned British citizens “to avoid a number of other states unless for essential reasons. The states include Bauchi, Kano, Jigawa, Niger, Sokoto, Kogi, Abia, Plateau, Taraba, within 20km of the border with Niger in Kebbi State and non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers states.” The statement reads.