The American diplomatic mission in Nigeria has postponed every visa interview booked for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing the serious risk of demonstrations erupting in the capital amid the escalating standoff between Washington and Tehran.
An official announcement published on the embassy’s website that same day drew attention to possible public unrest in the Federal Capital Territory and urged American nationals to stay inside their homes for safety.
“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 it stated.
This security alert comes against the backdrop of mounting worldwide tensions after Iranian state and local media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel.
Several other high-ranking Iranian officials were also reported killed in the attacks, prompting swift retaliation from Tehran.
Iran has allegedly launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. bases in Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, while pledging to avenge the deaths of its supreme leader and other regime figures.
The fighting, which began with coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes over the weekend, has now entered its fifth day with no sign of easing.
Earlier in the week, the U.S. Department of State issued a worldwide caution to American citizens.
“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 enrolment in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program for 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 already surfaced in Nigeria.
On March 3, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, popularly known as Shi’ites, had staged a peaceful protest in Potiskum and Nguru Local Government Areas of Yobe State, condemning the killing of Ayatollah 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.
Fearing 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 clarified that the Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos remain open and asked people to check the website for updates.
For emergency assistance, citizens were directed to contact the U.S. Embassy at +234 209 461 4328 or visit the website.
The notice 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.
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