Nigeria news : Crime is endemic in Nigeria – US cautions citizens

The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a holiday security alert to its citizens and others planning to travel to Nigeria.

In Abuja and Consulate General Lagos, the US Embassy in the new security alert posted on its website warned US citizens that insecurity might increase during the holiday period.

The alert stated that “Crime is endemic throughout Nigeria.”

It was adding that “terrorist organizations and individuals inspired by extremist ideology exist throughout Nigeria.

“We remind U.S. citizens to exercise caution while traveling and residing in Nigeria. Crime is endemic throughout Nigeria, ranging from petty street crime to carjacking, and crime levels tend to increase during the holidays.”

The statement also highlighted several places such as malls, religious centers, transport hubs as likely targets for extremists.

“Demonstrations are relatively commonplace in Nigeria and generally affect traffic flow, especially if they progress along major thoroughfares. Criminal and other elements often infiltrate large gatherings.

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