US Issues Travel Warnings for Two Countries

The U.S. Department of State has issued updated travel advisories for two countries—São Tomé and Príncipe and Nigeria—urging Americans to reconsider travel because of security concerns, political unrest, and limited emergency support. São Tomé and Príncipe: Level 3 Travel Advisory ‘Reconsider Travel’ The Department of State raised its travel advisory for São Tomé and Príncipe to “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” over concerns about political unrest and health risks. The advisory, issued on April 8, warns that the security environment could worsen with little notice, particularly as the island nation heads into a politically active year.

U.S. officials said that several events set to take place over 2026—including political party conventions in early April, a presidential election, scheduled for July 19, and legislative elections at the end of September—could trigger demonstrations or unrest. This could potentially disrupt transportation, block access to essential services, and complicate departure options for American travelers. The advisory also notes that U.S. government employees now need special permission to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe due to safety concerns.

As a result, the U.S. government has limited capacity to provide emergency services to American citizens in the country if conditions rapidly deteriorate. Health care access also remains another major concern.

According to the State Department, medical facilities in São Tomé and Príncipe are extremely limited, with no adequate trauma or ambulance services. Even relatively minor medical issues could require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense, making comprehensive travel and medical insurance especially important. Nigeria: Level 3 Travel Advisory ‘Reconsider Travel’ Nigeria remains under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory, reflecting long-standing concerns over violent crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

The Department of State has updated the advisory to announce that it has authorized “non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation.” It’s also added “Do not travel” advisories for Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states. U.S. officials continue to warn travelers that security risks are widespread and that some regions face even higher danger levels.

Violent crime—including armed robbery, carjacking, assault, and kidnapping—is common across the country. U.S. officials say kidnappings for ransom occur frequently, often targeting dual U.S.-Nigerian nationals and Americans—particularly during road travel—who are perceived to be wealthy. The advisory also highlights the persistent terrorism threat, with militant groups capable of launching attacks with little or no warning.

Potential targets include markets, hotels, transportation hubs, places of worship, schools, and government buildings.

In addition, the U.S. government has a limited ability to provide emergency assistance to American citizens in many parts of Nigeria due to security and infrastructure challenges. Health care services are inconsistent, many facilities lack essential equipment, and commonly used medications may be unavailable. Medical evacuation may be necessary in serious cases.

What Travelers Should Know For both countries, the Department of State recommends that travelers carefully assess risks before traveling and take additional precautions if they decide to go. This includes monitoring local news, avoiding demonstrations, keeping travel documents accessible, and enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates and facilitate contact with U.S. officials during emergencies.