US Shuts Abuja Visa Services Amid Escalating Security Concerns in Nigeria

The United States Department of State has suspended visa appointment services at its embassy in Abuja following the authorisation for non-emergency personnel and their families to depart Nigeria over worsening security conditions.

In a notice issued by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria on Thursday, April 9, 2026, via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the embassy confirmed the temporary halt of visa-related activities in the Federal Capital Territory.

“U.S. Embassy Abuja is closed for visa appointments. Applicants should check their email for details on rescheduled appointments. Visa operations at the U.S. Consulate General Lagos continue. American citizen services are available in emergencies and by appointment,” the statement read.

The development comes less than 24 hours after Washington approved the departure of non-essential staff from its Abuja mission, citing a deteriorating security environment across the country.

The authorisation, granted on Wednesday, was contained in an updated travel advisory which maintained Nigeria at Level 3, urging American citizens to reconsider travel due to heightened risks linked to terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and civil unrest.

According to the advisory issued on April 8, 2026, the security situation has worsened in several parts of the country, prompting the inclusion of Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states in the “Do Not Travel” category.

U.S. authorities warned against travel to multiple high-risk areas, including Borno, Yobe, northern Adamawa, and parts of Kogi, citing persistent insurgent activities and violent clashes. Other states such as Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also flagged over armed banditry, unrest, and widespread abductions.

In the southern region, states including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were highlighted due to criminal gang activity, separatist-linked violence, and frequent kidnappings.

The advisory painted a grim picture of nationwide insecurity, noting that violent crimes such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, rape, and hostage-taking remain prevalent.

“Kidnapping for ransom occurs frequently, particularly targeting dual nationals and foreigners perceived to be wealthy,” the report stated, adding that armed gangs have intensified attacks on highways, often stopping motorists and abducting victims.

It further warned of persistent terrorist threats, with insurgent groups continuing to plan and execute attacks—sometimes in collaboration with local criminal networks. Potential targets include markets, schools, religious centres, government facilities, and transportation hubs.

The report also drew attention to increasing communal clashes, particularly between farmers and herders in rural communities, as well as rising violence in the Niger Delta and the South-East involving armed groups.

In addition, concerns were raised about Nigeria’s healthcare system, which the U.S. government said falls below international standards and frequently lacks essential medicines.

Despite the suspension of visa services in Abuja, operations remain ongoing at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, providing limited consular services amid the heightened security alert.

Source: Sahara Reporters.