***Govt rejects U.S. travel advisory
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is safe contrary to the travel advisory issued by the United States government to its citizens, the Federal Government said on Monday.
Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris, in a statement assured Abuja residents of their security.
He stated that security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the continued safety and protection of all residents of the FCT and across the country.
Idris stressed that current security architecture in Abuja has not only been proactive but has also recorded significant successes in detecting, preventing and neutralizing threats.
The statement reads: “The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken note of the latest security advisory issued by the Embassy of the United States, restricting its staff and their families from non-official travel to military sites or other government facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
“While the Federal Government recognizes and respects the right of foreign missions, including the U.S. Embassy, to issue travel advisories to their citizens, it is important to state categorically that Abuja remains safe for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
“Nigeria’s security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the continued safety and protection of all residents of the FCT and across the country. The current security architecture in Abuja has not only been proactive but has also recorded significant successes in detecting, preventing, and neutralizing threats.
“We understand that the U.S. advisory is based on general global developments and does not reflect any imminent or specific threat within the FCT. However, we reiterate to all diplomatic missions, investors, development partners, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm.
“The Federal Government wishes to reaffirm its commitment to the safety of all residents and to maintaining Abuja’s reputation as one of the most secure capitals in the world. Our security and intelligence agencies are monitoring developments across the country and are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat.”
