United States Embassy in Abuja Cancels Visa Appointments Over Security Concerns

The United States Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, citing security concerns linked to possible protests in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement shared on Wednesday via its official X account, the embassy said the decision was taken due to the “potential for protests” in Abuja. Affected applicants will be contacted with instructions on how to reschedule their appointments.

The development follows protests earlier this week by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, in response to the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during joint United States and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran.

On Monday, demonstrations were recorded in several states, including Lagos State, Kano State, Niger State, Sokoto State, Gombe State and Kaduna State. Similar protests were later reported in Bauchi State and Yobe State.

Protesters carried Iranian flags and portraits of Khamenei, and displayed placards criticising the United States and Israel while expressing support for Iran. The rallies followed rising tensions in the Middle East after coordinated airstrikes on Iranian targets.

In Nigeria, the IMN has a history of organising public demonstrations in reaction to political and military developments involving Iran.

Amid the situation, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, directed commissioners of police nationwide to strengthen security measures.