By John Ikani
The United States Government has issued a security alert warning its citizens to exercise caution while travelling and residing in Nigeria.
They noted that crime is endemic throughout Nigeria, ranging from petty street crime to kidnapping, and that crime levels tend to increase during the holidays.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by the US Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria on Friday, December 17, 2021.
It pointed out that terrorist organizations and individuals inspired by extremist views exist throughout Nigeria and noted that shopping centers, airports, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, transportation hubs, street markets, and other public venues visited by Westerners are common attack targets.
The statement added that “Demonstrations are relatively commonplace in Nigeria and generally affect traffic flow, especially if they progress along major thoroughfares.”
In its security advice, the US Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria, asked its citizens to take the following actions:
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Carry proper identification.
• Stay alert in public places and locations frequented by tourists/foreigners.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Use caution when driving at night and avoid walking after dark.
• Always drive with your windows rolled up and the doors locked.
• Use only trusted transportation and drivers.
• Review and alter travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability.
• Avoid large gatherings and protests.
• Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
• Monitor local media for updates.
• Always keep the doors to your residence locked, even when at home.
What you should know
Despite some level of effort and several promises by the Federal Government to ensure the security of lives and properties, the security challenges still persist and are in fact, getting worse.
Kidnapping, banditry and other forms of violent crimes have been on the increase in different parts of the country in recent times, with foreigners as the victims in some cases.
