Us Embassy Releases Security Advisory For American Citizens In Nigeria Amid #Endbadgovernanceprotest

The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens regarding nationwide protests scheduled to take place from August 1st to 10th in Nigeria. The alert, as stated in a press release by the embassy and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, is a precautionary measure taken in light of the security risks associated with the upcoming protests.

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will operate with essential staff only on August 1st and 2nd, 2024, according to the statement. The consular sections of the embassy in Abuja and the consulate general in Lagos will provide limited emergency services for American citizens. In addition, all visa appointments have been canceled.

In anticipation of the protests, non-essential staff are advised to remain at home to prevent disruptions that may arise from the demonstrations. Media reports suggest that demonstrators will gather at the Eagle Square in Abuja in the mid to late morning. In Lagos, the protests may begin as early as 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. with primary locations identified as Alausa Park, Freedom Park, and Peace Park. Other potential protest sites in Lagos include Nahco Bus Stop (Airport Road), Marwa Bus Stop (Lekki-Epe Expressway), and Ikeja Under the Bridge (Intersection of Obafemi Awolowo and Allen Avenue).

The statement from the embassy also warns that protests could occur at various times and locations in Abuja, Lagos, and other cities in Nigeria over the next few days. It highlights that previous protests have involved roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations. Additionally, there is a risk of terrorist attacks in Nigeria, with terrorist groups potentially taking advantage of the protests as opportunities to carry out attacks.

The embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and crowds, exercise caution if unexpectedly near large gatherings, and monitor local media for updates. It also advises citizens to stay aware of their surroundings, maintain a low profile, verify flight schedules with their airlines, if traveling, review their security plans, keep their cell phones charged in case of emergency, and carry proper identification.