The federal government of Nigeria has declared that the Federal Capital City, Abuja, remains totally safe and residents have nothing to fear.
This position was made known in a statement on Monday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
The declaration follows an earlier warning from the United States government through its mission in Nigeria, in which it raised a security alert for its citizens, warning against non-official visits to military and government facilities in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Naijaonpoint reports that the advisory, released on Sunday, follows rising global and domestic security concerns, prompting the embassy to take precautionary measures for its staff and American nationals in Nigeria.
In the new directive, the US government said all employees of the US Embassy in Abuja, along with their families, are prohibited from visiting Nigerian military sites or government buildings unless it is for official purposes.
In reaction, the government of Nigeria stated that while it recognizes the right of foreign missions to issue safety and travel advisories to its citizens, it is important to clarify that Abuja remains totally safe.
Idris added that the government and security forces are also proactive in the management of the nation’s security architecture; hence, all residents of Abuja have nothing to fear.
He added that residents should go about their lawful activities without entertaining any fear.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken note of the latest security advisory issued by the Embassy of the United States, restricting its staff and their families from non-official travel to military sites or other government facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
“While the Federal Government recognizes and respects the right of foreign missions, including the U.S. Embassy, to issue travel advisories to their citizens, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
“Nigeria’s security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the continued safety and protection of all residents of the FCT and across the country. The current security architecture in Abuja has not only been proactive but has also recorded significant successes in detecting, preventing, and neutralizing threats.
“We understand that the U.S. advisory is based on general global developments and does not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the FCT. However, we reiterate to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm.
“The Federal Government wishes to reaffirm its commitment to the safety of all residents and to maintaining Abuja’s reputation as one of the most secure capitals in the world. Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat.
“We encourage citizens to conduct their lawful activities without fear, while also remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities,” the statement read.