US mission issue security alert to American citizens in Nigeria

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News, Trending Stories Sunday, June 29th, 2014

Against the backdrop of growing terror attacks in the country, most recently the June 25 bombing at EMAB Plaza in Abuja, the United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a strong security alert to her citizens- resident and travelling to the country.

The alert, which traced the history of bombing attacks to weekends, especially those associated with holidays and the fact that the Ramadan fast started this weekend, advised all US citizens to take extra precautions for their personal security and safety.

American residents and travellers to Nigeria were advised to be vigilant, particularly around churches and other places of worship, locations where large crowds may gather, government facilities and areas frequented by expatriates.

The Mission noted that security situation in Nigeria remained heightened due to threats posed by extremist groups, forewarning her citizens to expect additional police and military checkpoints, additional security, and possible road blocks throughout the country.

The embassy urged against non-essential travel to or within Abuja in the course of the weekend.

The US Mission recommended that American citizens travelling to or residing in Nigeria should enrol in the Department of State’s Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP), adding that such enrolment provides them with the latest security updates, as well as affording them prompt access to the nearest US Embassy or Consulate in the case of an emergency.