- The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, in Abuja
- The Embassy advised U.S. citizens in Abuja to remain indoors and avoid protest areas and large gatherings
- The warning is linked to escalating tensions between the United States and Iran after reports of the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, over fears of possible protests in Abuja linked to rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
In a notice published on its website, the Embassy cited “Potential Demonstrations” in the Federal Capital Territory and urged American citizens in Abuja to stay indoors.
“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 notice stated.
The development comes amid heightened global tensions following reports by Iranian state and local media that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in airstrikes allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
According to the reports, several senior Iranian officials also lost their lives in the strikes, prompting swift retaliatory action from Tehran.
Iran is said to have launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. military bases in Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, vowing to avenge the death of its Supreme Leader and other top regime figures.
The conflict, which reportedly began with coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes over the weekend, has now entered its fifth day with no sign of de-escalation.
Earlier, the U.S. 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 citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program to receive timely updates and cautioned that airspace closures related to the crisis could disrupt travel plans.
In Nigeria, the effects of the conflict have started to emerge. On Tuesday, March 3, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, commonly referred to as Shi’ites, staged a peaceful protest in Potiskum and Nguru Local Government Areas of Yobe State. The protesters condemned the reported killing of Ayatollah Khamenei, describing him as a revered spiritual leader.
Demonstrators marched through the streets carrying Iranian flags and large portraits of Khamenei, chanting slogans in solidarity with Iran and opposing what they described as foreign interference.
Citing the possibility of similar demonstrations in Abuja, the Embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid large gatherings and protest locations, remain vigilant, and keep 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 further urged Americans to monitor local media reports, ensure their mobile phones are fully charged, carry proper identification, stay alert in public spaces such as shopping centres and places of worship, and familiarise themselves with emergency exits when entering buildings.
Although visa appointments in Abuja were suspended for the day, the mission clarified that “The Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos remain open. Please monitor our website for updates.”
“For emergency assistance, please contact the U.S. Embassy at +234 209 461 4328 or visit the website.”