ALERT: US warns of elevated risk of terror attacks in Abuja

The United States (US) has warned its citizens about the possibility of terror attacks in Nigeria.

The US issued a security alert on Sunday, citing “elevated risk of terror attacks” in parts of the country.

In the alert posted on its website, the US embassy said the federal capital territory (FCT) stands a high risk of attack.

The US embassy said terrorists may target government buildings, places of worship, schools and markets.

Recreational centres such as hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants are also said to be potential places of target.

Athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and property of international organisations were also listed as locations where there’s a risk of attack.

By virtue of the security alert, the US said it will offer reduced services at its embassy in the FCT until further notice.

The US warned American citizens to avoid all non-essential travel or movements and to stay alert.

Americans were advised to avoid crowds, carry their means of identification on them at all times — and review their personal security plans and keep their cell phones charged in case of emergency.

On October 5, the US released a travel advisory advising its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria “due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime”.

Americans were warned against travelling to northern states like Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara.

Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers were the southern states listed as dangerous for travel.