‘Abuja is safe,’ says minister after US issues security warning
Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s minister of information and national orientation, has downplayed fears following a recent security advisory from the United States embassy, insisting that Abuja remains one of the safest capitals in the world.
In a statement released on Monday, Idris said there was no cause for alarm despite the embassy’s directive restricting its staff and their families from visiting military or government sites in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) unless on official duty.
He emphasised that the government remains vigilant and is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the city.
The minister said the federal government recognises the right of foreign missions to issue advisories to their citizens but insisted that there is no imminent or specific threat in Abuja.
“We recognise and respect the right of foreign missions, including the U.S. embassy, to issue travel advisories to their citizens,” the statement reads.
“However, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents and visitors alike.
The minister said Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies are working round the clock to protect lives and property across the country, particularly in the FCT.
He said the existing security architecture in Abuja is not only proactive but has also achieved “significant success in detecting, preventing, and neutralising threats”.
Idris added that the US advisory appears to be based on general global developments, not a specific risk within Nigeria’s capital.
“We reiterate to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm,” he said.
“The federal government remains fully committed to the safety of all residents and to maintaining Abuja’s reputation as one of the most secure capitals in the world.”
He urged citizens to continue their lawful activities without fear while also remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious behaviour to relevant authorities.
