The Federal Government has dismissed a United States Embassy security advisory restricting American staff from visiting military and government facilities in Abuja, insisting the nation’s capital remains completely safe for all residents and visitors.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris issued a strong rebuttal Monday after the US Embassy disclosed that all staff and family members are prohibited from non-official visits to military installations and government sites in the Federal Capital Territory due to “increased security concerns.”
“While the Federal Government recognizes and respects the right of foreign missions to issue travel advisories to their citizens, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike,” Idris declared in his response.
The minister emphasized that Nigeria’s security agencies are “working around the clock” and have recorded “significant successes in detecting, preventing, and neutralizing threats.” He characterized the US advisory as based on “general global developments” rather than specific threats within Abuja.
“We understand that the U.S. advisory does not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the FCT,” Idris stated, directly addressing concerns from diplomatic missions and investors. “There is no cause for alarm.”
The government’s swift response appeared designed to counter potential negative impacts on investor confidence and diplomatic relations. Nigerian authorities stressed their preparedness to handle any security challenges while encouraging citizens to continue normal activities.
“Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat,” the minister assured, calling on residents to remain vigilant while conducting their daily activities without fear.
The diplomatic disagreement highlights tensions between national sovereignty and international security assessments, with Nigeria maintaining that current security measures in the capital are adequate and effective despite American concerns.
