From Victor Osula Abuja
The US State Department has issued a global warning for US citizens outside the country.
The global alert issued on Sunday highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, as the United States on Friday launched strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities
Against this backdrop, the risk of anti-American demonstrations and protests in various regions of the world has significantly increased. American citizens are urged to exercise increased vigilance by avoiding crowded places, following local media reports, and registering in the STEP emergency notification programme.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has banned flights over Iran, Iraq, and the Persian Gulf. Major airlines, including Emirates and Qatar Airways, are already rerouting their flights around conflict zones.
In Nigeria, the United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a security alert on Sunday, urging American citizens to steer clear of military and government facilities in Abuja.
In a statement, the U.S. Embassy warned that all embassy personnel and their families are now restricted from visiting military installations and government venues in the Nigerian capital unless on official duty.
“Due to increased security concerns arising from current global developments, U.S. Mission Nigeria informs U.S. citizens that all U.S. Embassy employees and their families are prohibited from non-official travel to a Nigerian military site or other government venue in Abuja at this time”, the embassy statement read.
The alert comes amid global tensions and an uptick in security threats, prompting precautionary measures and a reassessment of movements around sensitive locations.
The embassy advised U.S. nationals in Nigeria to stay alert, especially in public areas and locations popular with expatriates, Westerners, and government officials.
They were also urged to avoid large gatherings, vary their routines, and familiarise themselves with emergency exits in buildings.
“Actions to take: Stay alert in public places, avoid large gatherings and unnecessary travel, and review your personal security plans”, the alert advised.
Despite the security restrictions, the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos remain open and fully operational. U.S. citizens needing assistance or additional information were encouraged to consult the embassy’s official website.
In Qatar, it warned it citizens to stay indoors.
