U.S. Embassy cancels Abuja visa appointments over protest alert
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for March 4, 2026, citing a high potential for protests in Abuja.
In a security notice issued on Tuesday, the embassy warned of possible demonstrations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and advised U.S. citizens to remain indoors.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that there is a high potential for protests in Abuja on March 4, 2026, due to the current conflict with Iran,” the statement said.
The mission noted that previous protests had resulted in clashes with security agencies and advised Americans in Abuja to stay within their residences.
The development follows escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Reports by Iranian state media indicated that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in airstrikes allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel. Other senior Iranian officials were also reported killed.
Subsequently, retaliatory missile launches were reported to have targeted U.S. military facilities in parts of the Gulf region.
Earlier, the United States Department of State advised Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution, particularly in the Middle East, and encouraged enrolment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for security updates.
On Tuesday, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria staged protests in parts of Yobe State over the reported killing of Khamenei.
Amid concerns about possible demonstrations in Abuja, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and large gatherings and to remain vigilant.
“Due to the potential for protests in Abuja, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments on March 4, 2026. Applicants will be contacted with information on how to reschedule,” the notice added.
The mission clarified that the Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos remain open, and urged citizens to monitor official channels for updates.