U.S. Embassy Warns Citizens to Avoid Military Sites, Govt. Venues in Abuja

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security alert, warning American citizens to avoid non-essential visits to military and government facilities in Abuja. This is due to unspecified global security concerns.

The alert was published on Sunday, 22 June, on the embassy’s official website. It also bars all U.S. staff and their families from non-official travel to Nigerian military sites or government venues in the capital.

Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, U.S. Mission Nigeria informs U.S. citizens that all U.S. embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja at this time, the statement read.

The Mission urged U.S. citizens to stay alert in public spaces, especially in places frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings, reduce unnecessary travel, and review their personal security plans. People were also urged to avoid predictable routines and check for emergency exits in buildings.

Growing global tensions were cited as the reason for the warning. Over the weekend, the U.S. carried out airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. This followed Iran’s alleged support for attacks on Israel. The strikes have intensified an ongoing missile exchange between both countries. Israel’s earlier strikes killed three top Iranian generals and six nuclear scientists.

In a statement issued on Saturday, 14 June 2025, Nigeria had responded to the crisis by condemning Israel’s airstrike against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the event as a dangerous escalation of hostilities with grave implications for regional and global peace.

Over the weekend, a deadly suicide bombing occurred in Borno State,  Nigeria. A suspected female bomber blew herself up in a crowded food joint in Konduga, killing between 10 and 24 people on 20 June. Dozens more were injured. While no group has claimed responsibility, the attack bears the mark of Boko Haram or ISWAP.

However, it is unclear what specific security events prompted the U.S. warning, or how Nigeria may be involved.

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