U.S. Embassy in Abuja Shuts Down Over Planned Protests
The United States Embassy in Abuja has announced a temporary closure of its routine consular services following security concerns over planned protests in the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement, the embassy disclosed that it will remain closed for routine services until Monday, March 9, 2026, a development that will affect both visa and American Citizen Services (ACS) appointments.
According to the notice, visa applicants whose appointments were scheduled for March 4 and 5 have been automatically rescheduled. Affected applicants have been advised to check their email messages or their AVITS accounts for their new appointment dates.
Similarly, individuals seeking American Citizen Services (ACS) are expected to confirm their new appointment schedules via email. The embassy further advised applicants who do not receive new dates to seek assistance through the Visa Navigator platform.
The temporary closure follows reports of planned demonstrations in Abuja linked to tensions surrounding the conflict involving Iran.
Security has been heightened across the city amid ongoing protests by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) in several states, including Niger State, Sokoto State, Kaduna State, Yobe State, Bauchi State, Gombe State and Lagos State.
The IMN reportedly described the protests as a peaceful demonstration of solidarity with Iran following reports of the death of the country’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, who was said to have died in airstrikes allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
The embassy also advised members of the public to monitor its official communication channels for further updates regarding the situation and the resumption of services.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
