- By Yinka Giwa
The U.S. Embassy in Abuja cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for March 4, 2026, and warned of possible protests in the Federal Capital Territory linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The diplomatic mission also advised American citizens in Abuja to remain indoors as a precaution amid fears that demonstrations could erupt in the city.
In a security alert posted on X by the U.S. Mission Nigeria, the embassy said there was a high likelihood of protests in Abuja, noting that similar demonstrations in the past had sometimes resulted in violent clashes.
“Security Alert: Possible Protest in Abuja. Location: Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. Event: Potential Demonstrations.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that there is a high potential for protests in Abuja on Wednesday, 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 advisory said.
Earlier, the embassy announced that all visa services scheduled in Abuja for the day had been suspended due to security concerns.
“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 mission said.
However, the embassy noted that while visa appointments in Abuja had been cancelled for the day, the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos remained open.
The mission also issued several safety recommendations to Americans in the capital, urging them to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, remain vigilant in public places, monitor local media for updates, and maintain a low profile.
Citizens were further advised to carry proper identification, review personal security plans, keep mobile phones charged, and vary travel routes and times to reduce predictability.
The embassy also encouraged Americans in Nigeria to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts and updates.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, said the Nigeria Police Force is closely monitoring developments related to the Middle East crisis as Iran solidarity protests gain attention across parts of the country.
Disu explained that keeping track of international developments forms part of the police’s broader intelligence-led policing strategy, especially given Nigeria’s diverse Islamic groups, some of which maintain ideological or religious affiliations with the Middle East.
“We monitor global events as part of our intelligence policing strategy. We know Nigeria has different Islamic groups, some with allegiance to the Middle East. We’ve taken necessary actions; policemen are on patrol, and we’re urging protesters to avoid lawlessness,” the police chief said.
He added that security agencies have already deployed patrol teams and strengthened surveillance measures to prevent any possible spillover of tensions into Nigeria.
While acknowledging that peaceful protest is a constitutional right, Disu warned that the police would not tolerate actions capable of threatening public order or safety.
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