March 04, (THEWILL) — The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, and issued a security advisory to U.S. citizens in the Federal Capital Territory, warning of a high potential for protests linked to escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
The Embassy’s actions reflect growing international unease over the ongoing Middle East crisis and its possible local repercussions.
In an official notice, the Embassy said the cancellations are a precautionary measure due to the risk of demonstrations in Abuja and surrounding areas. Affected visa applicants will be contacted with information on how to reschedule their interviews. The mission urged applicants to monitor its website and social media channels for updates.
The Embassy also warned that previous demonstrations in the city have, at times, resulted in clashes between protest groups and security forces, and strongly recommended that American citizens and residents remain in their residences on Wednesday to minimize risk.
Citizens were advised to avoid areas where protests may take place, stay away from crowds, monitor local media for updates, be aware of their surroundings, keep phones charged, carry proper identification, and vary travel routes and times to reduce predictability.
Although protests are possible, the Embassy confirmed that the Consular Sections in Abuja and Lagos remain open for urgent cases, and citizens are encouraged to consult official Embassy platforms for the latest updates. Emergency assistance is available through the Embassy’s contact line at +234 209 461 4328.
The warning and service disruption come amid a broader global crisis triggered by joint U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran, which began in last Saturday. The air campaign targeted strategic Iranian sites and prompted retaliatory attacks, sparking worldwide reactions, including protests.
In Nigeria, solidarity demonstrations with Iran have been reported in Lagos, Kaduna, Sokoto, and Kano, prompting heightened vigilance by security agencies, including increased police alertness in the Federal Capital Territory.
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