- Suspends visa appointments until…
The United States of America (USA) has closed its embassy in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, for visa appointments.
The United States Mission in Nigeria announced the suspension of visa appointments at its Abuja embassy, after earlier releasing a broader security advisory urging American citizens to “reconsider travel” due to persistent risks.
In a notice on Thursday, the U.S. Mission stated that the embassy in Abuja is currently closed for visa appointments, advising affected applicants to monitor their emails for information regarding rescheduled dates.
The Mission, however, clarified that visa operations remain ongoing at the Consulate General in Lagos, ensuring that consular services are not entirely disrupted.
“U.S. Embassy Abuja is closed for visa appointments. Applicants should check their email for details on rescheduled appointments. Visa operations at U.S. Consulate General Lagos continue.
“American citizen services are available in emergencies and by appointment,” the post by the Mission released via X (formerly Twitter) read.
The development comes against the backdrop of a broader security advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State, which continues to classify Nigeria under a Level 3 travel advisory, urging American citizens to “reconsider travel” due to persistent risks.
These risks include crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed gang activity, as well as inconsistent access to healthcare services.
Recent developments suggest growing concern within U.S. diplomatic circles. According to reports, Washington has also authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency government personnel and their families from Abuja, reflecting heightened caution over the country’s security environment.
Nigeria has in recent months witnessed a series of violent incidents, including terrorist attacks, mass killings, and kidnappings across several regions.
Analysts note that such incidents have contributed to sustained international concern about safety conditions, particularly for foreign nationals and diplomatic staff.
The U.S. travel advisory system is designed to inform citizens of potential risks abroad, with Level 3 indicating serious threats to safety and security.
Under this classification, Americans are advised to avoid non-essential travel and exercise heightened vigilance if travel is unavoidable.
Despite the temporary suspension of visa services in Abuja, the U.S. Mission emphasized that emergency services for American citizens remain available, while routine consular services continue in Lagos.
Observers say the move may lead to increased pressure on the Lagos consulate, as applicants adjust to the temporary closure in the nation’s capital.
The Nigerian government has yet to officially respond to the latest development.