All visa interviews slated for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the Abuja mission of the United States Embassy in Nigeria have been put on hold following security concerns tied to the worsening crisis between Washington and Tehran.
In a fresh security advisory, the embassy flagged the likelihood of demonstrations in the Federal Capital Territory and urged Americans living in Abuja to stay 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 precautionary move comes amid mounting global tension after Iranian outlets reported that the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in airstrikes allegedly conducted by the United States and Israel. Several senior Iranian officials were also reportedly among the casualties, prompting a rapid response from Tehran.
Iran is said to have fired missiles at American military facilities in parts of the Gulf region, including Saudi Arabia, vowing retaliation over the deaths. What began as coordinated strikes over the weekend has now stretched into several days of sustained hostilities.
Earlier in the week, the U.S. State Department had already cautioned citizens globally to heighten their awareness.
“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 read.
Officials also encouraged Americans to sign up for the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program for timely notifications and warned that air travel could be affected by intermittent airspace closures.
In Nigeria, reactions to the international crisis have started to surface. Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria held peaceful rallies in parts of Yobe State, condemning the reported killing of Khamenei and expressing solidarity with Iran.
With fears that similar protests could erupt in Abuja, the embassy advised its nationals to avoid crowded areas, remain alert, and maintain a low profile.
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“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.
While visa services in Abuja were suspended for the day, the mission clarified that its consular offices in Abuja and Lagos remain operational, urging the public to monitor official channels for any new developments.