US Embassy Suspends Abuja Visa Appointments Amid Protest Concerns

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing a high potential for protests in Abuja amid escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran.

In a statement posted on its website on Wednesday, the Embassy warned of “Potential Demonstrations” in the Federal Capital Territory and urged American citizens to remain indoors.

“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that there is a high potential for protests in Abuja tomorrow, March 4, 2026, due to the current conflict with Iran.

“Previous protests by some groups have resulted in violent clashes between the groups and Nigerian security forces. The Embassy strongly recommends that all U.S. citizens in Abuja remain in their residences on Wednesday, March 4,” the notice stated.

The warning comes against the backdrop of intensifying global tensions following reports by Iranian state and local media confirming the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, after airstrikes reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel.

Several other high-ranking Iranian officials were also said to have been killed in the strikes, prompting swift retaliation from Tehran.

In response, Iran reportedly launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. bases in Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, vowing to avenge the death of its Supreme Leader and other regime officials. The conflict, which began with coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes over the weekend, entered its fifth day on Wednesday with no sign of easing.

Earlier in the week, the United States Department of State had advised American citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution.

“Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate,” the advisory stated.

The department also urged citizens to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive timely updates and warned that travel disruptions could occur due to periodic airspace closures linked to the unfolding crisis.

The ripple effects of the conflict have begun to surface in parts of Nigeria. On Tuesday, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, popularly known as Shi’ites, staged a peaceful protest in Potiskum and Nguru Local Government Areas of Yobe State, condemning the killing of Khamenei, whom they described as a revered spiritual leader.

Protesters marched through the towns carrying Iranian flags and large portraits of Khamenei, chanting slogans expressing solidarity with Iran and opposition to what they termed foreign interference.

Citing concerns that similar demonstrations could occur in Abuja, the Embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, remain vigilant, and maintain a low profile.

“Due to the potential for protests in Abuja, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Applicants will be contacted with information on how to reschedule. Please monitor our website and social media channels for further updates,” the statement added.

The Embassy further advised Americans to monitor local media for updates, keep mobile phones charged, carry proper identification, stay alert in public places such as shopping centres and places of worship, and familiarise themselves with emergency exits when entering buildings.

While visa appointments in Abuja were cancelled for the day, the mission clarified that its consular sections in Abuja and Lagos remain open and urged applicants to continue monitoring official channels for updates.

For emergency assistance, the Embassy asked U.S. citizens to contact its emergency line or visit its official website.