US, UK warn citizens of possible terror attacks in Nigeria’s capital

The US and UK governments have warned their citizens of possible terror attacks in Nigeria, particularly in the capital, Abuja.

According to a security advisory by the US embassy in Nigeria, there is “an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja.”

The embassy said the targets may include but are not limited to government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organizations.

As a result of this, the US embassy said, it will offer reduced services until further notice.

It advised Americans in Nigeria to avoid all non-essential travel or movement, stay alert, avoid crowds, and follow local news and the advice of security authorities.

Additionally, it advised Americans in Nigeria to review their personal security plans, keep their cell phones charged in case of emergency, and carry proper identification.

The advisory by the British High Commission in Nigeria is similar to that of the US.

“There is an increased threat of terrorist attack in Abuja. You should stay alert, consider movements carefully, follow the local news and the advice of security authorities,” the UK advisory stated.

Both embassies posted their advisories on their respective websites.

The latest advisories occur about a week after the Australian embassy had advised its citizens not to travel to Nigeria.

Earlier, the Australian embassy, in last Wednesday’s travel advisory, listed flooding, terrorism, and kidnapping as some of the reasons for the advisory.

DSS calls for calm over US security alert 

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services has called for calm after disclosing that several enquiries have been received over the security advisory issued by the United States Embassy in Abuja.

Responding to the warnings, DSS’s spokesperson Dr. Peter Afunanya, in a statement on Sunday, recalled that the Service had variously issued similar warnings in the past.

He said, “While advising that necessary precautions are taken by all and sundry, the populace is enjoined to remain alert and assist security agencies with useful information regarding threats and suspicious criminal acts around them.”

The Service further called for calm as it works with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to maintain peace and order in and beyond Abuja.