The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced a temporary halt to visa appointment services at its Embassy in Abuja.
The development was disclosed in a statement posted on the mission’s official X handle on Thursday, advising affected applicants to monitor their emails for updates on rescheduled appointments.
“U.S. Embassy Abuja is closed for visa appointments. Applicants should check their email for details on rescheduled appointments,” the mission stated.
It, however, clarified that visa processing at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos remains unaffected and continues as scheduled.
“Visa operations at U.S. Consulate General Lagos continue,” the statement added.
The mission also noted that American citizen services are still being provided, particularly in emergency situations and through prior appointments.
“American citizen services are available in emergencies and by appointment,” it said.
The suspension comes amid heightened security concerns, following a recent advisory by the United States government authorising the evacuation of non-essential personnel from its Abuja embassy.
The US State Department had earlier updated its travel advisory for Nigeria, increasing the number of states under its highest warning category, “Do Not Travel,” to 23.
While Nigeria remains under Level 3 advisory, indicating “Reconsider Travel,” the department warned of elevated risks in several regions, including threats of crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping.
It further cautioned that American citizens are frequently targeted for abduction and robbery, with potential terror attacks in public places such as markets, places of worship, hotels and large gatherings.
The advisory also highlighted concerns over Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting that many hospitals demand upfront payment, while emergency response services, including ambulances and blood supply, are often inadequate.
According to the department, medical facilities in the country may fall short of international standards, making emergency evacuation necessary in critical situations.
US citizens residing in or visiting Nigeria were advised to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Programme, avoid crowded areas, maintain unpredictable routines and prepare independent evacuation plans.
Additionally, the advisory recommended setting up “proof of life” arrangements with family members in case of kidnapping incidents.
The updated blacklist categorised affected states into regions based on prevailing security threats, with areas in the North-East, North-West, and parts of the South-East and Niger Delta flagged for terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and civil unrest.
Newly added states including Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba were described as volatile, with security conditions said to be increasingly uncertain due to the spread of violence and ongoing security operations.
