Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reacted to concerns over the reported withdrawal of non-emergency personnel from the United States Embassy in Nigeria, attributing the development to global security threats rather than Nigeria’s domestic political situation.
The development followed a directive by the United States Department of State on April 8, 2026, authorising the departure of non-essential staff and their families from its Abuja embassy amid worsening security concerns. The US also issued an updated travel advisory warning citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and healthcare challenges.
Speaking at the commissioning of the new NRS headquarters in Abuja, Akpabio dismissed claims linking embassy movements to Nigeria’s upcoming elections, saying such interpretations were incorrect and misleading.
He argued that countries like the United States are adjusting their diplomatic presence globally due to wider geopolitical tensions, citing concerns over potential threats from adversaries such as Iran. He insisted that such decisions are precautionary measures unrelated to Nigeria’s internal politics.
Akpabio reassured Nigerians of their safety, expressing confidence that the country remains secure despite global uncertainties, and urged citizens not to politicise embassy security adjustments.