The United States Embassy in Nigeria has suspended all visa appointments scheduled for March, 4th, 2026, citing security concerns and a high risk of demonstrations in Abuja linked to rising tensions between Washington and Tehran.
The Embassy has advised American citizens in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to remain indoors, avoid areas of potential gatherings, and stay alert, noting that past protests in the region have occasionally turned violent.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the mission explained that the cancellations were prompted by the potential for protests and assured visa applicants that they would be contacted with instructions to reschedule.
“Due to the potential for protests in Abuja, the U.S. Embassy has cancelled all visa appointments on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Applicants will be contacted with information on how to reschedule. Please monitor our website and social media channels for further updates,” the statement read.
The Embassy emphasized that the Consular Sections in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remain open, urging the public to check official channels for updates.
The development follows a global security alert issued by U.S. authorities after Iranian media reported the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Tehran reportedly launching missiles at U.S. bases in Gulf countries in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli airstrikes.
In Nigeria, members of the Islamic Movement, popularly known as Shi’ites, staged peaceful protests in Potiskum and Nguru Local Government Areas of Yobe State on Tuesday, condemning Khamenei’s death.
Demonstrators carried Iranian flags and large portraits of the leader, chanting slogans in solidarity with Iran and opposing what they described as foreign interference.
The Embassy warned that similar demonstrations could occur in Abuja and urged U.S. citizens to remain cautious, carry identification, keep phones charged, vary travel routes, and familiarize themselves with emergency exits in public spaces.
