Senate President Godswill Akpabio has attributed the United States’ move to reduce its embassy presence in Nigeria to international security worries, dismissing suggestions that it relates to Nigeria’s political environment. The development followed a directive by the US government allowing non-emergency staff and their families to leave its Abuja mission amid heightened security concerns. Updated […]
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has attributed the United States’ move to reduce its embassy presence in Nigeria to international security worries, dismissing suggestions that it relates to Nigeria’s political environment.
The development followed a directive by the US government allowing non-emergency staff and their families to leave its Abuja mission amid heightened security concerns.
Updated guidance from US authorities also advised Americans to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to growing risks, including violence, abductions, and instability.
Reacting during an official event in Abuja, Akpabio said the narrative linking embassy actions to Nigeria’s elections is inaccurate.
He noted that global tensions, particularly involving countries like Iran, often prompt the United States to take protective steps across its diplomatic missions.
According to him, reducing staff presence is a precautionary strategy aimed at minimising exposure in case of international conflict or attacks.
Akpabio stressed that such measures should not be misinterpreted as a sign of political crisis within Nigeria.
He reassured Nigerians that the country remains stable and urged citizens not to panic over external security decisions.