The United Kingdom and the United States embassies have come under fire from Lai Mohammed, the minister of information, for travel warnings that were issued regarding Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, three months ago.
According to Lai Mohammed, who highlighted that the advisory caused panic throughout the country, the people of Abuja have been going about their daily lives unaffected for the past three months.
He commended the Nigerian troops, the police, intelligence agencies and other security agencies for their work well done in keeping the country safe.
He also asked Nigerians to continue to help the security agencies to fight against insecurity in the country.
He said: “Let me use this occasion to commend our security agencies for their sacrifices to keep us safe.
“Recall, ladies and gentlemen, that in October 2022, the US and UK embassies in Nigeria issued travel advisories warning their citizens to avoid Abuja due to the risk of a terrorist attack.
“This advisory created much panic in the country. As a matter of fact, a number of Americans were reported to have fled Abuja in the wake of the warning.
“Recall also that in our reaction to the advisory, we reassured Nigerians and non-Nigerians living in the country of their safety and noted that our security agencies are on top of the matter.
“Almost three months after the frivolous advisory, residents of Abuja have been going about their businesses without any threat.
“It is in this light that we want to, once again, commend our gallant troops, the police, the intelligence agencies, and all other security agencies for their commitment and sacrifice to keep our country safe.
“We also call on Nigerians to continue to support the security agencies as they carry out their onerous task while echoing Mr President’s call on Western countries to stop issuing frivolous travel advisories on Nigeria.”