US warning to citizens not reflective of threat within FCT – Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has issued a rebuttal to a recent security advisory released by the United States Embassy, which advises its citizens to suspend trips to military and government bases in Abuja.

In the advisory, which was released on Monday, the US Embassy cited security concerns. It urged its citizens to remain vigilant in public places, avoid large gatherings, and be familiar with emergency exits in buildings.

“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,” the advisory read in part.

Reacting via a statement on Monday, Idris emphasised that Abuja remains safe for Nigerians and visitors despite the advisory.

The minister also acknowledged the right of the US Embassy and other foreign missions to issue travel advisories for their citizens, but clarified that the advisory appears to be influenced by global security trends, not security threats to Nigeria’s capital city.

“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.

“We understand that the U.S. advisory is based on general global developments and does not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the FCT. However, we reiterate to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm,” the minister noted.

He affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory and maintaining the FCT’s reputation as one of the world’s most secure capital cities.

Idris also urged citizens to conduct their activities without fear, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

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