By Ginika Igboke
The U.S. State Department has issued updated travel advisories for Nigeria, Ethiopia, and São Tomé and Príncipe, designating all three as “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” due to security and safety concerns.
Nigeria: Security Risks and Embassy Changes
The April 8 advisory for Nigeria highlights widespread risks, including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent access to health care.
“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk,” the department stated.
The update added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to the list of areas Americans are advised not to visit.
The U.S. Embassy Abuja announced that non-emergency personnel and their families have been authorized to leave due to worsening security conditions.
Violent crime—including armed robbery, assault, rape, carjacking, and roadside banditry—is common. Kidnapping for ransom remains a major threat, with criminals often targeting dual nationals and individuals perceived as wealthy. Gangs are known to block highways to rob and abduct travelers.
The advisory also warns of terrorist threats, noting that extremist groups may collaborate with local criminal networks and carry out attacks with little or no warning. In northeastern regions, targets have included humanitarian sites, government buildings, transportation routes, and places of worship.
Nigeria has also drawn scrutiny from the administration of Donald Trump over violence against Christians. In October 2025, Trump designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing ongoing attacks.
Subsequent actions included visa restrictions announced by Marco Rubio against individuals linked to atrocities, and a reported U.S. military strike in December 2025 targeting ISIS elements in northwest Nigeria. Nigerian authorities said the operation was part of broader regional security efforts.
In early 2026, Nigeria’s Defense Ministry confirmed that approximately 100 U.S. troops had been deployed to assist with military training and counterterrorism efforts. Other groups active in the country include ISIS West Africa and Ansaru, both responsible for attacks on civilians and government forces.
Ethiopia: Conflict, Travel Limits, and Legal Risks
The April 1 advisory for Ethiopia warns of crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and communication disruptions.
While the capital, Addis Ababa, remains relatively stable, other regions face sporadic armed conflict and unrest that could escalate without warning.
The State Department noted that U.S. personnel must obtain special authorization to travel outside the capital, and consular services are limited. Travel restrictions also reduce the embassy’s ability to assist detained Americans.
Ethiopia does not recognize dual citizenship, which can delay notification to U.S. officials when dual nationals are arrested. The advisory also highlights strict enforcement of exit bans tied to unpaid immigration fines, with some cases exceeding $100,000.
Terrorist groups have targeted foreigners for kidnapping, particularly in regions such as Gambella and Benishangul Gumuz, as well as border areas near Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan.
São Tomé and Príncipe: Rising Unrest and Health Concerns
On April 8, the State Department raised its advisory level for São Tomé and Príncipe from Level 2 to Level 3, citing concerns about political unrest and limited medical services.
Upcoming political events—including presidential elections scheduled for July 19 and legislative elections on September 27—may trigger demonstrations or disruptions.
“The security environment may deteriorate without warning,” the department stated, noting that protests could block transportation and essential services.
The advisory also warns that medical care is limited, and even minor health issues may require evacuation for treatment.
Ongoing Risks Across Regions
The updated advisories underscore a range of risks facing travelers, from terrorism and violent crime to political instability and limited infrastructure. U.S. officials continue to urge caution and careful planning for anyone considering travel to these regions.
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