.Says Abuja is safe
.No cause for alarm – FG
By UZOCHUKWU MADUIKE, Abuja
The United States yesterday issued a stern warning to its citizens living or visiting Nigeria to be extremely vigilant as well as avoid military and government facilities, particularly in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory ,FCT.
The U.S.Mission in Nigeria, however, barred embassy officials from visiting military sites and government facilities except for official purposes.
The warning was contained in alert released by the U.S. Embassy yesterday, June 23, highlighting the increased global security concerns for the decision.
This is coming on the heels of renewed tension in global community over the recent crisis between Israel and Iran, which has prompted tightened security and international travels.
American citizens residing in or visiting Nigeria are urged to remain vigilant in public places, particularly in locations frequented by Westerners, expatriates, and government officials.
The embassy also advised avoiding large gatherings, maintaining unpredictable routines, and being familiar with emergency exits in buildings.
US nationals are encouraged to review their personal security plans and exercise increased caution during their stay in Nigeria.
The statement read in part, “Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, U.S. Mission Nigeria informs U.S. citizens that all U.S. Embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military sites or other government venue in Abuja at this time.
“Actions to take: Stay alert in public places, with particular attention to locations and venues where Westerners, expatriates, and government officials frequent.
“Avoid large gatherings and consider limiting unnecessary travel. Avoid predictable routines. Familiarise yourself with emergency exits when you enter buildings. Review your personal security plans”.
Despite the new restrictions, the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remain open and operational.
Citizens seeking further information or needing assistance were advised to visit the embassy’s official website.
AljazirahNigeria recalls that the ongoing Israeli-Iranian war has escalated to an extent owing to the United States involvement in the destruction and bombardment of the Iranians three nuclear sites.
Consequently, Iranian government has warned Arabian and Persian countries not to offer help to the U.S. and Israel or risk retaliation.
Iran, AljazirahNigeria reports that since the US bombed the Iranian nuclear sites the country has struck a few U.S. military bases in Qatar and Iraq.
Meanwhile, the federal government yesterday assured that Abuja is safe for citizens and visitors alike, and security agencies are working round the clock to ensure protection of all residents.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who gave the assurances in a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists was reacting to the latest security advisory issued by the Embassy of the United States, restricting its staff members and their families from non-official travel to military sites or other government facilities in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.
According to him “While the federal government recognises 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.
“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 neutralising threats”.
The Minister pointed out that the U.S. advisory, which was based on general global developments, did not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the Federal Capital Territory.
In this vein, Idris reiterated to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that “there is no cause for alarm”, adding that “The Federal Government wishes to reaffirm its commitment to the safety of all residents and to maintaining Abuja’s reputation as one of the most secure capitals in the world.
“Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat.
“We encourage citizens to conduct their lawful activities without fear while also remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities”.
