The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed claims of heightened security threats in Abuja, following a travel advisory issued by the United States Mission in Nigeria warning its citizens to avoid unofficial visits to military and government facilities in the capital.
The U.S. advisory, issued earlier on Monday, stated:
“Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, US Mission Nigeria informs US citizens that all US Embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja at this time.”
In a swift rebuttal, Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, maintained that the Federal Capital Territory remains safe for residents and visitors. He emphasized that the government acknowledges the right of foreign missions to issue advisories to their nationals, but insisted the situation in Abuja does not warrant such concerns.
“While the Federal Government recognizes 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.
He further assured that Nigeria’s security architecture in the FCT is both proactive and effective.
“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.”
The federal government’s reassurance comes amid growing global tensions and increasing scrutiny on the safety of diplomatic missions and foreign nationals in various parts of the world.
Despite the U.S. directive, the Nigerian government urges the public to remain calm and vigilant, reaffirming its commitment to national security and public safety.
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