The United States Mission in Nigeria has temporarily suspended routine operations at its embassy in Abuja after warning of possible demonstrations in the Nigerian capital.
Officials announced that the diplomatic facility would remain closed for standard services until Monday, March 9, 2026, as authorities monitor the evolving security situation.
According to the Mission, the precautionary step was taken after intelligence suggested that protests could occur in parts of the city in the coming days.
In a statement shared on its official social media page, the Mission said the suspension affects routine embassy services but does not signal a permanent shutdown.
“Due to the potential for protests in Abuja, routine business at the embassy has been suspended temporarily,” the Mission said.
“Normal operations are expected to resume on March 9.”
Moreover, the announcement confirmed that several consular services have been affected by the closure.
Visa interviews scheduled for March 4 and 5 have been postponed, while appointments for American Citizen Services earlier planned for March 5 have also been moved to next week.
Applicants seeking visas were advised to check their email notifications or review their accounts on the appointment platform for updated interview dates.
“Those who do not receive a new appointment notice should contact support through the Visa Navigator system,” the Mission said, adding that further updates would be published through its website and official communication channels.
However, the decision followed earlier disruptions earlier in the week.
On Wednesday, the embassy had already cancelled visa appointments scheduled for March 4 after similar security concerns surfaced regarding planned protests in the capital.
Security presence across Abuja reportedly intensified shortly afterwards, with multiple agencies deploying personnel around sensitive locations to prevent possible unrest.
Authorities were particularly monitoring activities linked to the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, whose supporters had recently staged demonstrations in several states including Niger, Sokoto, Kaduna, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe and Lagos.
Furthermore, members of the movement reportedly described their protests as peaceful expressions of solidarity with Iran following reports surrounding the death of Ali Khamenei, the country’s Supreme Leader.
Khamenei was reported to have died in airstrikes allegedly carried out by forces from the United States and Israel, claims that have fueled demonstrations among supporters across parts of northern Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Mission urged residents and travellers to remain attentive to official advisories while the security situation continues to be monitored.