The United States Embassy in Nigeria has warned American citizens of a possible terrorist threat targeting U.S. facilities and schools affiliated with the United States in the country.
In a security alert posted on its website on Monday, the embassy said the notice was meant to inform U.S. nationals in Nigeria about potential risks and urged them to take extra precautions when visiting American diplomatic missions and related institutions.
According to the advisory, U.S. citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant when traveling to the embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General Lagos 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 statement said. “The embassy recommends that U.S. citizens take additional precautions when traveling to the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, and U.S.-affiliated schools, including varying travel times and routes.”
The mission further advised Americans to avoid predictable routines, remain alert in public spaces, and ensure their mobile phones are fully charged in case of emergencies.
Other safety measures listed include maintaining awareness of surroundings, keeping a low profile, reviewing personal security plans, avoiding large crowds and demonstrations, and identifying emergency exits when entering buildings.
However, the embassy did not disclose the source of the alleged threat.
The advisory also comes amid rising global security tensions following recent hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have heightened security concerns in several regions.
The development follows recent protests in Lagos and some northern states by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, who condemned the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in strikes allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
Reports also indicated that Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, the wife of Khamenei, died from injuries reportedly sustained during recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on her residence in Tehran.
The warning comes months after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on targets in Nigeria on Christmas Day, claiming the operation was aimed at jihadist groups operating in the country.
Trump had earlier alleged that Christians were being persecuted in Africa’s most populous nation, a claim that has been widely disputed in Nigeria, where violence has affected both Christian and Muslim communities.
