The governments of the US and UK have alerted their nationals to the possibility of terrorist attacks in Nigeria, notably in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
There is “an heightened danger of terror strikes in Nigeria, notably in Abuja,” according to a security advice from the US embassy in Nigeria.
The targets might be government buildings, houses of worship, schools, markets, shopping centers, hotels, bars, restaurants, sporting events, transportation hubs, law enforcement institutions, and international organisations, according to the embassy.
The US embassy stated that as a result, it will provide fewer services up until further notice. It cautioned Americans traveling to or moving through Nigeria to keep vigilant, avoid crowds, and adhere to local news and security authorities’ recommendations.
It also suggested that Americans travel to Nigeria with updated personal security plans, fully charged cellphones for emergencies, and valid identification.
The British High Commission in Nigeria has issued an advisory that is comparable to the US.
“There is an increased threat of terrorist attack in Abuja. You should stay alert, consider movements carefully, follow the local news and the advice of security authorities,” the UK advisory stated.
The advisories were published on the websites of each embassy. The most recent warnings come around a week after the Australian embassy warned its people against visiting Nigeria.
Recall that the Australian embassy issued a travel warning on Wednesday, citing various causes including flooding, terrorism, and kidnapping.
As of the time of this publication, the Nigerian government had not responded to the advise. However, a senior security official assured journalists that the security services were “on top of the situation” and guarding against any terrorist attacks in the capital of Nigeria.
Meanwhile, last week, Nigerian troops neutralised six Boko Haram terrorists in the North East Banki of Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, Northeast Nigeria, by the Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) land forces and air component.
According to reports, the assailants were ambushed and killed on Sunday along the kilometre-long Kumshe-Banki route.