Visa applicants in Nigeria were left in limbo on Thursday after the United States Embassy in Abuja suddenly cancelled scheduled visa interviews, citing heightened security risks. The decision follows a new travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State highlighting deteriorating security conditions in parts of the country.
According to the advisory, the U.S. government has authorised the departure of non-essential embassy personnel and their families from Abuja. Nigeria remains under a “Reconsider Travel” classification, with more states added to the “Do Not Travel” list due to rising threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and civil unrest.
Applicants affected by the cancellations have been urged to check their emails for updates on rescheduled appointments, as the embassy adjusts its operations in response to the evolving situation. Meanwhile, visa services at the U.S. Consulate in Lagos continue, providing an alternative option, although limited capacity may result in delays.
The development has reignited concerns among Nigerians about the country’s global security image. Experts caution that beyond disrupting visa processes, such advisories could negatively affect foreign investment, international travel, and diplomatic relations if the security challenges are not swiftly addressed.
