The United States Embassy in Abuja has suspended all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, over concerns about possible protests in the Federal Capital Territory.
The announcement was made in a statement posted on the embassy’s official X account on Wednesday, March 4.
According to the embassy, applicants affected by the cancellation will be contacted with details on how to reschedule their appointments.
“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. Please monitor our website and social media channels for further updates.
For emergency assistance, please contact the U.S. Embassy at +234 209 461 4328 or visit the website,” it stated.
The decision follows protests organised by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, also known as Shi’ites, over the reported killing of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, during recent airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Tehran.
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On Monday, demonstrations were recorded in several parts of the country, including Lagos, Kano, Niger, Sokoto, Gombe and Kaduna states.
Participants in the protests condemned the military action carried out by the United States and Israel, which reportedly resulted in the death of Khamenei and members of his family.
Similar protests were also reported in Bauchi and Yobe states.
During the demonstrations, protesters carried Iranian flags, displayed images of Khamenei, and held placards criticising the United States and Israel while expressing solidarity with Iran.
The protests come against the backdrop of rising tensions in the Middle East following coordinated airstrikes by the US and Israel on Iranian targets.
In Nigeria, the Shi’ite movement has historically shown support for Iran and its leadership, often organising demonstrations in reaction to major developments involving the country.