The U.S. government has issued a warning that the Transcorp Hilton, Nicon Luxury and Sheraton hotels in Abuja, Nigeria may be under the threat of terrorist attack by Islamic extremist group Boko Haram.
Following Boko Haram attacks in the northern Nigerian states of Yobe and Borno, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria said it has received information that Boko Haram may plan to attack several locations and hotels in Abuja, Nigeria, during the Sallah holiday.
“Potential targets may include the Nicon Luxury, the Sheraton Hotel, and the Transcorp Hilton Hotel,” said the embassy in an emergency message. “All U.S. government personnel have been instructed to avoid these locations, and previously scheduled events have been cancelled.”
Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc. said that it has increased security in light of U.S. State Department’s warning.
“The hotel has maintained security at the highest levels for a number of months. The hotel is aware of the recent issue and has increased security procedures including the presence of police assigned to the hotel,” a Starwood spokesperson said.