US raises Abuja security concerns after two late-night armed robberies

The United States has warned its citizens in Abuja to strengthen their personal security after receiving reports of two armed robberies in areas of the Nigerian capital frequented by expatriates.

• The US Embassy received reports of two late-night armed robberies in Abuja.
• Both incidents occurred in areas frequented by expatriates, but their precise locations were not disclosed.
• The embassy warned that petty crime in Abuja historically increases between November and January.
• Nigeria remains under the US Level 3 advisory, which asks Americans to reconsider travel.

The US Embassy said both incidents occurred late at night but did not identify the neighbourhoods, establishments or people involved.

The warning comes ahead of the year-end period, when the embassy says petty crime has historically increased in Abuja.

“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja wishes to remind U.S. citizens that the State Department rates Nigeria CRITICAL for crime. The Embassy recently received two reports of armed robbery late at night in areas frequented by the expatriate community.

"Increasing your situational awareness, avoiding predictable routines, and reviewing general security precautions with your family reduces your chances of becoming a victim. Petty crime rates in Abuja historically increase in the period from November through January,” the embassy said in a security alert issued on October 28⁠.

The embassy urged Americans living in or visiting the capital to remain conscious of their surroundings, avoid predictable routines and review security precautions with their families.

“Increasing your situational awareness, avoiding predictable routines, and reviewing general security precautions with your family reduces your chances of becoming a victim. Petty crime rates in Abuja historically increase in the period from November through January,” it said.

Americans advised to avoid late-night travel

The embassy advised US citizens to exercise particular caution in public places, car parks, entrance barriers and while entering or leaving their vehicles.

Americans were also asked to be vigilant when visiting banks and automated teller machines, avoid displaying expensive jewellery and watches and refrain from travelling alone where possible.

The alert advised against late-night journeys and visits to places without security guards, controlled parking or adequate lighting.

It also asked citizens to consider avoiding venues regularly patronised by Westerners and expatriates.

Nigeria remains under Level 3 advisory

Nigeria remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, under the State Department’s four-level system.

The latest countrywide advisory, issued on 12 June, cites crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest and inconsistent access to healthcare.

The State Department says armed robbery, assault, burglary, carjacking, kidnapping and extortion are common in Nigeria. It also cautions that police may respond slowly or lack sufficient resources to investigate crimes and assist victims.

Abuja is not among the locations placed under the highest “Do Not Travel” classification. However, American government employees are subject to security restrictions, and embassy personnel and their families are prohibited from using public transport in Nigeria.

The State Department advises people confronted by robbers not to resist physically. It also recommends using hotel-approved vehicles or registered ride-hailing services rather than taxis picked up on the street.

According to the advisory, unauthorised taxis are sometimes used by so-called “one-chance” criminals who assault and rob passengers.

US citizens are encouraged to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which allows the embassy to send security information and contact them or their relatives during an emergency.