Following the present debilitating state of security in Nigeria, the United States (US) government has warned its citizens to re- consider intentions to travel or visit Nigeria.

This was revealed by the US travel advisory as a result of Nigeria’s (third) position on the list of countries known for kidnapping, violence and terrorism.

United States Department, listed 14 Nigerian States to be avoided, while visiting the country, these are Borno, Yobe, and Northern Adamawa states, due to terror and kidnapping.

Others are Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Zamfara states, due to kidnapping. It also banned American citizens from going to coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Rivers states (with exception of Portharcourt) due to crime, kidnapping and maritime crime.

The US State Department wrote:

“Violent crime such as armed robbery, assault, car jacking, hostage taking, banditry, and rape is common throughout the country.

“Kidnappings for ransom occur frequently, often targeting dual national citizens who have returned to Nigeria for a visit, as well as US citizens with perceived wealth. Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate road.

“Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria, especially in the Northeast. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting shopping centres, malls, markets, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, government installations, transportation hubs, and other places where crowds gather. Terrorists are known to work with local gangs to expand their reach.

“There is civil unrest and low level armed military in ports of Southern Nigeria, especially in Niger Delta region. Armed criminality, including kidnapping and maritime crime is also pervasive in this region.

” Violence can flare between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas.”

Ijeoma Njoku reporting, Obinwannem News