The United States Embassy has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing a high potential for protests in Abuja amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.
In a statement posted on its website on Wednesday, the embassy warned of possible demonstrations in the Federal Capital Territory and advised American citizens to remain 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,” the statement said.
It noted that previous protests by some groups had resulted in violent clashes with Nigerian security forces and strongly recommended that all U.S. citizens in Abuja remain in their residences on the day.
Global Tensions
The advisory follows heightened global tensions after Iranian state and local media confirmed the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, after airstrikes reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
Several senior Iranian officials were also reported killed in the strikes, triggering swift retaliation from Tehran.
Iran was said to have launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. military bases in Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, vowing to avenge the deaths.
The conflict, which began with coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes over the weekend, entered its fifth day with no indication of de-escalation.
State Department Warning
Earlier in the week, the United States Department of State advised American citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution, particularly in the Middle East.
“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 said.
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The department also urged citizens to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program to receive timely updates and warned of possible travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures.
Protests in Nigeria
The impact of the crisis has begun to surface in Nigeria. On Tuesday, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria staged peaceful protests in Potiskum and Nguru local government areas of Yobe State, condemning the killing of Khamenei, whom they described as a revered spiritual leader.
The protesters marched through the towns carrying Iranian flags and large portraits of Khamenei while chanting slogans in solidarity with Iran.
Visa Services
Citing concerns that similar demonstrations could occur in Abuja, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, remain vigilant and maintain 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,” the statement said.
The embassy further advised Americans to monitor local media, keep mobile phones charged, carry valid identification and stay alert in public places.
While visa appointments in Abuja were cancelled for the day, the mission said the consular sections at the embassy in Abuja and the consulate general in Lagos remained open.
For emergency assistance, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to contact its emergency line or visit its official website for updates.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
