The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing high potential for protests in Abuja linked to escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
In a statement, the Embassy warned American citizens in the Federal Capital Territory to remain indoors, citing previous violent clashes between protesters and Nigerian security forces. The move follows reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in airstrikes reportedly carried out by the U.S. and Israel, prompting missile retaliations from Tehran against U.S. bases in Gulf countries.
The Embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, stay vigilant, maintain a low profile, and monitor local media and Embassy channels for updates. Visa applicants will be contacted on rescheduling, and while consular services in Abuja and Lagos remain open, appointments in Abuja were cancelled for the day.
Emergency assistance is available via +234 209 461 4328 or the Embassy’s website.
This precautionary measure comes amid ongoing global tensions and localized demonstrations by pro-Iran groups in parts of Nigeria, including Yobe State, highlighting concerns of similar protests in the capital.
