The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced the suspension of visa appointments at its embassy in Abuja, citing ongoing security concerns.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, the mission said the Abuja embassy would no longer process visa appointments for now.
“U.S. Embassy Abuja is closed for visa appointments. Applicants should check their email for details on rescheduled appointments,” the notice read.
However, the mission clarified that visa services remain available at the U.S. Consulate General Lagos, where operations are continuing without disruption.
It also noted that American citizen services in Abuja are still accessible in emergencies and by prior appointment.
Linked to broader security advisory
The development follows a recent directive from the United States Department of State authorising the departure of non-emergency staff from Abuja, amid growing security concerns across parts of Nigeria.
The updated travel advisory maintains Nigeria at Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” but expands the number of states under the highest warning category, “Do Not Travel,” to 23.
Newly added states include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba, reflecting what U.S. authorities describe as a widening spread of insecurity, particularly in the Middle Belt.
Rising risks flagged
According to the advisory, risks across Nigeria include crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping, with Americans identified as potential targets for abduction and robbery.
The State Department warned that terrorist groups continue to plan and carry out attacks in various locations, including markets, places of worship, hotels and large public gatherings.
It also highlighted challenges within the healthcare system, noting that emergency medical services are often limited. Hospitals may require upfront cash payments, ambulance services can be unreliable, and blood supply systems are inconsistent.
In severe medical situations, the advisory said evacuation may be necessary, as many facilities do not meet U.S. or European standards.
Regional breakdown of high-risk areas
The advisory categorises affected states by dominant security threats.
In the northeast, Borno, Yobe, Kogi and northern Adamawa remain under warnings related to terrorism and kidnapping, with extremist groups continuing coordinated attacks.
Northwestern states including Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara face persistent banditry, communal violence and abductions, often compounded by unpredictable security operations.
In the South-East and Niger Delta, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) are flagged for crime, civil unrest and armed gang activity.
Guidance for US citizens
The State Department has advised U.S. citizens in Nigeria to enroll in its Smart Traveller Enrollment Programme, avoid large gatherings, vary daily routines and maintain contingency plans that do not rely on government assistance.
It also encouraged individuals to establish “proof of life” communication protocols with family members in case of kidnapping.
While visa services in Abuja remain suspended, officials have not indicated when normal operations will resume, leaving applicants to await further updates as security conditions evolve.
