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The United States Department of State  has listed Delta among several Nigerian states facing serious security concerns, as it authorized the evacuation of non-emergency personnel from its embassy in Abuja.

In an updated travel advisory issued on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 the Department cited a deteriorating security environment across the country, warning American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria over rising incidents of crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.

Effective April 8, 2026, Nigeria remains under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” classification, while multiple states, including Delta, have been designated “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” the highest risk category.

The latest update expanded the list of high-risk states with the addition of Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba, bringing the total number of “Do Not Travel” states to 23.

According to the advisory, “On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to depart the U.S. Embassy in Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation.”

Delta State, alongside Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt), was specifically flagged over persistent threats of crime, kidnapping, and unrest across southern Nigeria.

The advisory stressed that criminal activities in the region are widespread, with a high risk of abductions, violent protests, and operations by armed groups. It warned that U.S. citizens are often targeted due to perceived wealth.

Across northern Nigeria, states such as Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also listed under severe risk due to terrorism, banditry, and communal violence. The Department noted that security operations in these areas could occur without prior notice.

It further warned that terrorist attacks remain a nationwide threat, potentially targeting public spaces including markets, shopping centres, hotels, places of worship, and large gatherings.

Beyond security concerns, the Department highlighted the country’s limited and inconsistent healthcare system, noting that medical facilities often fall short of U.S. and European standards.

While urging caution, the State Department advised Americans who must travel to Nigeria to enroll in its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), avoid large gatherings, monitor local developments closely, and establish personal safety measures, including “proof of life” protocols.