US embassy, consulate in Nigeria closed over security concerns during Eid holiday
he US Embassy in Abuja and the US Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on August and August 22 in observance of the Muslim Eid-el-Kabir holiday.
Image/CIA
In a security alert issued on August 17 to all US citizens in Nigeria, the embassy said both missions will only re-open on Thursday August 23. The alert cited the possibility of terrorist attacks by extremist groups during the Eid holiday for the temporary closure of the missions.
“Please exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings during the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir holiday. Security measures in Nigeria remain heightened due to threats posed by extremist groups. Expect additional police and military checkpoints and possible road blocks throughout the country.
“Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa. Exercise caution when walking or driving at night. Review travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability. Avoid crowds and demonstrations,” the security alert said.
Further, US citizens were advised to be aware of their surroundings, keep a low-profile and stay alert when in public places like schools, hospitals, government offices and places of worship.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Abuja says its consular section will reopen on August 24, providing full services for both visas and American Citizen Services (ACS).
“Visa and ACS applicants with scheduled appointments for August 24 should come to the Embassy, as usual. Visa and ACS applicants with cancelled appointments between August 13 and August 23 will be contacted by the Embassy for rescheduling,” the embassy said.
No reasons were given for the suspension of services mid-last week. However, Visa and ACS services at the US Consulate General in Lagos were not affected.
