The United States government has warned its citizens against travelling to 18 Nigerian states, citing the high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, armed gangs, violent crimes, and unreliable healthcare services.

In a statement issued by the US Mission in Nigeria and published on its website, the US advised Americans to reconsider any planned trip to Nigeria, noting that all parts of the country carry “significant security risks.”

“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some places in Nigeria have an increased risk. Overall, all locations carry significant security risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory,” the statement read.

The advisory placed 18 states on Level 4 – the highest threat level – and urged Americans not to travel to those states for any reason.

States Americans are advised not to travel to:

Due to terrorism and kidnapping:

1. Borno

2. Yobe

3. Kogi

4. Northern Adamawa

Due to kidnapping:

5. Bauchi

6. Gombe

7. Kaduna

8. Kano

9. Katsina

10. Sokoto

11. Zamfara

Due to crime, kidnapping, and armed gangs:

12. Abia

13. Anambra

14. Bayelsa

15. Delta

16. Enugu

17. Imo

18. Rivers (except Port Harcourt)

The advisory also warned of the poor state of Nigeria’s healthcare system. “U.S. citizens should not expect the same level of health care to be available in Nigeria as they do in the United States,” it said, noting a shortage of common medicines, unreliable emergency services, and the risk of counterfeit drugs.

Travellers were advised to bring all necessary medications, update their vaccinations, purchase medical evacuation insurance, and prepare backup plans in case of emergency.

The advisory, however, urged those who choose to travel to stay alert, carry proper identification, avoid large gatherings, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and enable their location to be tracked in emergencies. (Nigerian Tribune)