The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing security concerns and the possibility of protests in Abuja, linked to rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
In a notice published on its website, the embassy warned of “Potential Demonstrations” in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and strongly advised 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 today, 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 statement read.
The advisory follows escalating global tensions after reports from Iranian state and local media confirmed the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, allegedly resulting from coordinated airstrikes attributed to the United States and Israel.
Several senior Iranian officials were also reported killed in the strikes, prompting swift retaliation from Tehran.
Iran is said to have launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. military installations in Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, vowing to avenge the deaths of its top leadership.
The confrontation, which reportedly began with joint U.S.-Israeli military operations over the weekend, has continued into its fifth day without signs of de-escalation.
Earlier, the United States Department of State had issued a global advisory urging American citizens to exercise heightened 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 encouraged enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time security updates and warned that airspace closures could disrupt travel plans.
In Nigeria, the ripple effects of the crisis have begun to emerge.
On Tuesday, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria staged peaceful demonstrations in Potiskum and Nguru Local Government Areas of Yobe State, condemning the reported killing of Khamenei, whom they described as a revered spiritual leader.
Protesters reportedly marched through the towns carrying Iranian flags and portraits of the late leader, chanting slogans in solidarity with Iran and criticising foreign intervention.
Citing fears that similar protests could occur in Abuja, the Embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid protest zones and large gatherings, remain vigilant, and keep 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 notice added.
The embassy further urged Americans to stay informed through local media, keep their mobile phones charged, carry valid identification, exercise caution in public spaces such as shopping malls and places of worship, and familiarise themselves with emergency exits when indoors.
Although visa appointments in Abuja were suspended for the day, the mission clarified that consular operations remain open.
“The Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos remain open. Please monitor our website for updates,” the statement added.
For emergencies, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to contact its hotline at +234 209 461 4328 or visit its official website for assistance.
