The Federal Government has assured citizens and visitors that Abuja remains safe despite a recent travel advisory issued by the United States Embassy. The US advisory restricts its staff members and their families from non-official travel to military sites or other government facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, citing increased security concerns arising from current global developments.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, responded to the advisory, stating that Abuja is safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike. “While the Federal Government recognises and respects the right of foreign missions, including the U.S. Embassy, to issue travel advisories to their citizens, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike,” Idris said in a statement.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the continued safety and protection of all residents of the FCT and across the country. “The current security architecture in Abuja has not only been proactive but has also recorded significant successes in detecting, preventing, and neutralizing threats,” he added.
Idris noted that the U.S. advisory, which was based on general global developments, did not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the Federal Capital Territory. He reiterated to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that “there is no cause for alarm”.
The minister further stated that the Federal Government wishes to reaffirm its commitment to the safety of all residents and to maintaining Abuja’s reputation as one of the most secure capitals in the world. “Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat,” he said.
Idris encouraged citizens to conduct their lawful activities without fear, while also remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. The Federal Government’s assurance comes amid heightened security concerns in the country, with various governments issuing travel advisories to their citizens.