Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated that the recent reduction in staff at United States diplomatic missions in Nigeria is driven by global security concerns tied to Iran, rather than domestic political developments. He made this known during the inauguration of the new headquarters of the National Assembly Service Commission in Abuja.
According to Akpabio, the move by the United States Department of State is part of a broader precautionary strategy being implemented worldwide. He explained that fears of potential retaliatory attacks linked to Iran have prompted the United States to scale down personnel in several locations, including Nigeria.
“Many of the embassies are afraid of repercussions from their foes,” Akpabio said, noting that America is particularly cautious about possible threats. He stressed that the development should not be misinterpreted as a reflection of Nigeria’s internal political climate or the approaching elections.
The Senate President dismissed speculation that the decision is connected to Nigeria’s electoral environment, insisting that diplomatic missions are acting based on international security intelligence. He reassured Nigerians that the country remains stable and that elections will proceed without disruption.
This development follows an updated travel advisory issued by the U.S. government, which placed Nigeria under a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” category, citing concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest in parts of the country.
Akpabio concluded by expressing confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, stating that the nation would overcome its current challenges and remain secure despite global uncertainties.