U.S. Embassy Abuja suspends visa appointments after security warnings

The United States Embassy Abuja has announced the suspension of visa appointments in the nation’s capital, directing affected applicants to await further instructions.

In a post on its official X handle, the embassy said, “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 development comes amid heightened security concerns flagged by the United States Department of State, which has ordered the departure of non-essential staff and their family members from Abuja.

In a travel advisory issued on Wednesday, the department urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria from April 8, 2026, citing risks including crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and limited healthcare services.

The advisory places Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while 23 states have been designated “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” indicating a further escalation in security concerns.

Despite the closure in Abuja, visa processing continues at the U.S. Consulate General Lagos, while emergency and appointment-based services remain available for American citizens.

Vanguard News