The United States (U.S) mission in Nigeria has announced its decision to close visa services at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria.
The development was disclosed on April 9, 2026, via the mission’s official handle on X.
The U.S announced the decision to close visa services in Nigeria after it authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency government employees and their family members from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja.
This decision stemmed from a “deteriorating security situation” and an updated Level 3 travel advisory, which urges American citizens to reconsider travel to the country due to heightened risks of crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
The updated advisory highlighted specific regions—including Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and several others—as “Level 4: Do Not Travel” zones.
“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave the U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory stated in part.
However, the Nigerian government has responded to the alert, with the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, describing the U.S. move as a “routine precaution.”
He argued that the U.S. “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” status does not account for the Nigerian security gains made through intensified military operations in the North-Central and North-East zones.
“While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable,” Idris stated.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy has warned that its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Abuja is now limited.
The U.S mission in Nigeria advised applicants to await further communication regarding their appointments.
“U.S. Embassy Abuja is closed for visa appointments. Applicants should check their email for details on rescheduled appointments.”
It, however, clarified that visa processing activities remain ongoing in Lagos, while emergency services for American citizens are still accessible under specific conditions.
“Visa operations at U.S. Consulate General Lagos continue. American citizen services are available in emergencies and by appointment.”
This decision comes amid a recent surge in insecurity cases across the country.
The development also comes after the U.S had deployed hundreds of troops to Nigeria as part of efforts to combat terrorists in the country.
