The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced the suspension of visa appointment services at its Embassy in Abuja, while clarifying that operations continue at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos.
In a statement posted on its official X handle, the mission said the Abuja embassy is currently closed for visa appointments and advised applicants to check their emails for rescheduling updates.
It, however, confirmed that visa processing remains active at the Lagos consulate. “Visa operations at U.S. Consulate General Lagos continue,” the mission stated.
The embassy also noted that services for American citizens are still available in emergencies and by appointment.
The development comes amid a broader security advisory issued by the United States Department of State, which authorised the departure of non-emergency staff from its Abuja mission and updated its travel guidance for Nigeria.
The advisory expanded the list of states under its highest risk category, “Do Not Travel,” to include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger and Taraba, citing rising insecurity in parts of the country.
While Nigeria remains classified under a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory, the State Department warned of heightened risks including terrorism, crime, kidnapping and civil unrest across multiple regions.
It also raised concerns about emergency healthcare conditions in the country, noting that many medical facilities fall below US and European standards, with unreliable ambulance services and limited blood supply systems.
Americans were urged to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Programme, avoid large gatherings, vary routines and maintain contingency evacuation plans that do not rely on government assistance.
The advisory further warned that kidnapping and violent attacks remain a significant threat in several parts of the country, particularly in regions affected by banditry and communal clashes.