The United States Embassy in Nigeria has warned American citizens about a potential terrorist threat directed at U.S. diplomatic facilities and institutions associated with the United States in the country.
In a security advisory released on its website on Monday, the embassy said the notice was intended to alert U.S. nationals living in or visiting Nigeria to possible dangers and urged them to take extra safety precautions.
The advisory specifically referenced the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, as well as schools affiliated with the United States.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens of a possible terrorist threat against U.S. facilities and U.S.-affiliated schools in Nigeria.
“The Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens take additional precautions when travelling to the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, and U.S.-affiliated schools, to include varying times and routes,” the statement read.
The mission further advised Americans to stay vigilant, maintain a low profile, and review their personal security arrangements while moving around the country.
“Be aware of your surroundings, keep a low profile, review your personal security plans, vary your regular routes, keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency, stay alert in public places, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and familiarise yourself with emergency exits when entering buildings,” it said.
Although the embassy did not identify the source of the threat, the warning comes amid heightened global tensions involving the United States and its allies.
The situation follows recent confrontations between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other, which have led to missile and drone attacks targeting countries aligned with Washington.
In Nigeria, the development has also coincided with protests in parts of the country, including demonstrations in Lagos and some northern states by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.
The protests were linked to reports about the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in attacks allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
Meanwhile, reports also suggested that Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, wife of the Iranian leader, died after suffering injuries during strikes on her residence in Tehran.
The alert comes amid wider geopolitical tensions and recent military actions reportedly ordered by Donald Trump targeting suspected jihadist groups in Nigeria.
