U.S. Embassy in Abuja Cancels Visa Appointments Over Security Concerns

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has suspended all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, citing security concerns linked to possible protests in the nation’s capital.

The announcement was made in a statement posted on the embassy’s official X account, where applicants were advised to await further instructions regarding rescheduling.

According to the statement, the decision was taken due to the potential for demonstrations in Abuja. Affected applicants are expected to be contacted with information on how to reschedule their appointments.

The embassy described the measure as temporary and urged members of the public to monitor its website and social media platforms for updates on when services would resume.

It expressed appreciation for the public’s understanding, stressing that the pause was intended to maintain safety and prevent disruptions to consular operations.

Wider Tensions and Policy Changes

The development comes amid protests reported in parts of Nigeria following rising tensions in the Middle East. Members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) staged demonstrations in several states, condemning joint U.S.–Israeli military actions in Iran.

Security agencies were deployed in affected areas, although there were no confirmed reports of casualties. The embassy did not directly link the protests to any specific group but referenced the broader security situation in Abuja.

Beyond the temporary cancellation, recent changes in U.S. visa policy have also affected Nigerian applicants. Presidential Proclamation 10998, which took effect on January 1, 2026, introduced a partial suspension of certain visa categories for Nigerian citizens, including B-1 and B-2 visitor visas, as well as F, M, and J student and exchange visas.

While holders of valid F1 and J1 visas remain exempt, new visa issuances have generally been limited to single-entry permits with three-month validity, replacing the longer-term multi-entry visas previously granted.

US To Partially Halt Certain Visas For Nigerians From January 1, 2026

In addition, digital screening requirements now mandate applicants to disclose social media usernames used within the past five years. The U.S. Mission has also reiterated that overstaying a visa may result in permanent bans or other penalties, urging Nigerians to comply fully with immigration regulations.

The embassy said visa services would resume once the security situation stabilises.