The United States Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing a “potential for protests” in the nation’s capital.
In a statement, the embassy said, “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.”
The move follows protests by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, across several states over the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during recent US-Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Demonstrations were held in Lagos, Kano, Niger, Sokoto, Gombe, Kaduna, Bauchi and Yobe states. Protesters waved Iranian flags, displayed portraits of Khamenei, and condemned the joint military action by the US and Israel.
In response, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has directed commissioners of police nationwide to heighten security measures.
