The U.S. State Department has given some employees at its embassy in Nigeria the option to leave, pointing to a worsening security situation. This decision follows reports that the U.S. military sent an MQ-9 Reaper drone to Nigeria, amid fears of a new resurgence from the terrorist group Boko Haram. Just before this announcement, armed groups attacked two villages about 255 miles from Abuja, resulting in 20 deaths, according to local residents.
On April 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of State authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency personnel and their families from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, which remains operational but may have limited capacity to provide emergency services to citizens. The U.S. Consulate in Lagos continues to offer routine and emergency services. Currently, the State Department’s travel advisory for Nigeria is at Level 3, urging travelers to reconsider visiting due to risks associated with crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and inadequate healthcare.
The recent attacks occurred early on a Tuesday morning in the Shiroro district of Niger state. One local, Jibrin Isa, described the surprise raid, stating the gunmen arrived on motorcycles and opened fire unexpectedly.
According to the official reports, at least 20 individuals lost their lives in these latest incidents, though local police claim the number is only three. The State Department has issued a travel advisory warning about potential terrorist violence in Nigeria, mentioning that groups are allegedly collaborating with local gangs to widen their reach and may carry out attacks with little or no warning.
The drone was sent in response to the ongoing security crisis in Nigeria, which has significantly escalated in the northern part of the country. Earlier this year, about 200 U.S. troops arrived for training and intelligence assistance, working alongside the Nigerian military to enhance its capabilities. Among the notable extremist factions in Nigeria are Boko Haram and its splinter group, affiliated with ISIS, known as the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Additionally, various armed groups operate in Nigeria, often engaging in kidnappings for ransom and illegal activities. In response to the violence directed at Christians, former President Donald Trump expressed strong concerns last year, emphasizing the need for intervention.
