NATIONAL: ‘Keep a low profile,’ crime endemic in Nigeria, US cautions citizens

‘Shopping centres, airports, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, others are targets of attack’

THE United States Embassy in Nigeria has again alerted American citizens to the danger associated with residing or holidaying in Nigeria at the moment.

The embassy asked American citizens to exercise caution wherever they’re in the most populous country in Africa.

This was contained in a security alert published on the Embassy’s website on Wednesday.

The mission said, “crime was endemic throughout Nigeria ranging from petty street crime to carjacking, and crime levels tend to increase during the holidays”.

It noted, “Terrorist organizations and individuals inspired by extremist ideology exist throughout Nigeria.

“Shopping centres, airports, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, transportation hubs, street markets, and other public venues frequented by Westerners are common attack targets.”

The statement titled, ‘Holiday security alert,’ further said that criminal and other elements often infiltrate large gatherings.

It noted that public demonstrations which it said were common, could inhibit flow of traffic.

The mission admonished Americans to be aware of their surroundings, keep a low profile and carry proper identification.

The advisory advised them to “stay alert in public places and locations frequented by tourists/Westerners; review your personal security plans and use caution when driving at night and avoid walking after dark.”