The United States has ordered Thursday the departure of its non-essential diplomatic personnel, as well as their families, from Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, due to the «heightened risk of terrorist attacks.»
The U.S. State Department has issued the departure order two days after it called for the voluntary departure of the diplomatic service and their families.
Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel, speaking to reporters on Wednesday, clarified that the move was still voluntary.
«Yesterday the department approved authorized departure–a technical term in this situation–for non-emergency U.S. family members and U.S. government officials in Abuja. We made this voluntary departure decision due to a great deal of caution related to an elevated risk of terrorist attacks, specifically in Abuja,» Patel explained.
U.S. authorities have warned that targets may include places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, sports gatherings, transportation terminals, police facilities and international organizations.
The U.S. Embassy in Abuja reported earlier in the week that due to the heightened risk of attacks, it would offer «reduced services until further notice. Meanwhile, the consulate in Lagos would be providing «all routine and emergency services».
In addition, the U.S. delegation recommended avoiding all non-essential movements, staying alert, avoiding crowds, reviewing security plans and keeping your phone charged, and carrying proper identification.
OTHER WESTERN COUNTRIES SUPPORT THE ACT On the other hand, as well as Washington, the United Kingdom, Canada, Israel and Australia have issued such considerations on essential travel to Nigeria.
The British Foreign Office on Wednesday warned British citizens to avoid travel to the Nigerian capital territory.
«There is an increased threat of terrorist attack in Abuja. You should remain vigilant, avoid non-essential travel within the city and follow local news and advice from security authorities. The British High Commission remains open for essential services,» a statement from the ministry portfolio said.
Canada has also joined in the warnings for its citizens in the African country by issuing a warning to «avoid all non-essential travel».
«Due to the unpredictable security situation in the country and the increased risk of terrorism, crime, inter-communal clashes, armed attacks and kidnappings,» justifies the Canadian cabinet.
In this line has been pronounced the Australian Executive, which has recommended citizens to «reconsider their need to travel to Nigeria because of the high threats of attacks, instability and possible violent civil unrest». «The highest (warning) levels apply,» it added.
Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) has subsequently issued a travel warning urging Israelis to avoid non-essential visits to the African country.
«In recent days there has been an increase in terrorist threats in Nigeria. Against this backdrop, fear of possible terrorist attacks is growing in several parts of the country, with emphasis on the capital, Abuja,» reads a missive from the institution issued Thursday.
It urges Israeli citizens to avoid non-essential travel, and to shorten the stay of those in Nigerian territory. This travel warning includes a high threat level in the north of the country.
