Abuja — A former Southeast spokesperson to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Josef Onoh, has called for a more balanced interpretation of the recent travel advisory issued by the United States Department of State, urging constructive engagement between both countries.

In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, Onoh, who is also chairman of the forum of former members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, expressed concern over the scope and timing of the April 8, 2026 advisory.

The updated guidance placed Nigeria at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, citing concerns such as crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and healthcare limitations. It also expanded Level 4: Do Not Travel areas to include additional states, while authorizing the voluntary departure of non-emergency US government personnel and their families from the embassy in Abuja due to security considerations.

Onoh acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges, noting that insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP remain active in parts of the northeast, while banditry and kidnapping persist in sections of the northwest and north-central regions. He also pointed to incidents of violent crime in some southern areas.

He, however, emphasized that such risks vary significantly across regions and should not be viewed as uniform nationwide.

According to him, major economic centres including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt continue to host international businesses and expatriates, with ongoing commercial activities supported by established security measures.

Onoh further stated that the administration of President Tinubu has prioritised security, citing increased budgetary allocations to defence and internal security, as well as ongoing operations by security agencies aimed at addressing threats across the country.

While noting that travel advisories are typically precautionary, he suggested that broad classifications may sometimes benefit from more nuanced, region-specific assessments that reflect varying conditions within a country.

Onoh also highlighted Nigeria’s recent economic indicators, including GDP growth, moderating inflation, and strengthened foreign reserves, as signs of ongoing efforts to address structural challenges linked to insecurity.

On healthcare, he acknowledged disparities in access but noted that major private facilities in key urban centres provide services that meet international standards.

In his view, while the advisory underscores legitimate concerns, its overall framing may have implications for investor confidence and bilateral engagement if not carefully contextualised.

He called for continued dialogue between Nigeria and the United States, advocating for approaches that combine accurate risk communication with strengthened cooperation in areas such as security, economic investment, and institutional capacity building.

Onoh suggested that closer collaboration—including intelligence sharing, targeted investment initiatives, and sustained diplomatic engagement—could further support stability and mutual interests.

He added that Nigeria remains open to partnerships that promote shared security, economic growth, and long-term bilateral relations.