US ISSUES TRAVEL WARNING, CALLS FOR VIGILANCE THIS WEEKEND

US ISSUES TRAVEL WARNING, CALLS FOR VIGILANCE THIS WEEKEND

The United States of America has cautioned its citizens planning to travel to or within Abuja this weekend to take extra precautionary measures for their personal security and safety.

In a message from US to its citizens in Abuja, the US mission in Nigeria said that the security message had become necessary in view of the June 25 bombing in the Wuse II neighborhood of Abuja.

The statement issued by an Executive Director in the US mission, Mr. Stephen P. Brunette, the mission added that given the history of bombing attacks on weekends (some associated with holidays), as well as the recent bombing at Emab Plaza in Wuse II, the mission urges all US citizens living and travelling in Nigeria “to take extra precautions for your personal security and safety.

“The US mission urges against non-essential travel to or within Abuja during the upcoming weekend.

The US mission advises all US citizens to be particularly vigilant around churches and other places of worship, locations where large crowds may gather, government facilities, and areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers during the upcoming weekend.

“Security measures in Nigeria remain heightened due to threats posed by extremist groups, and US citizens should expect additional police and military checkpoints, additional security, and possible road blocks throughout the country.

“We recommend that US citizens traveling to or residing in Nigeria enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the US embassy or nearest US consulate to contact you in an emergency.

“If you do not have internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.”

The statement encouraged regular monitoring of the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website, where its citizens could find current travel warnings, including the travel warning for Nigeria, travel alerts, and the worldwide caution.