US Embassy: Visa, Passport Services Uninterrupted in Nigeria Amid Government Shutdown

Despite the ongoing partial shutdown of the United States government, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has assured the public that visa and passport services will continue without disruption.

The clarification follows growing concern among Nigerians that the shutdown in Washington, D.C., could affect visa processing, student travel, and other consular activities.

In a statement posted Wednesday on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the embassy said:

“Due to the lapse in appropriations, this X account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, with the exception of urgent safety and security information.
At this time, scheduled passport and visa services in the United States and at U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations, as the situation permits.”

The embassy also noted that its social media platforms would remain largely inactive during the shutdown, barring updates related to urgent safety or security matters.

The U.S. government shutdown began after lawmakers failed to reach a budget agreement, largely due to disputes over funding for healthcare programs championed by Democrats—opposed by then-President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans.

As a result, several federal agencies have suspended operations, though essential services, including the military, postal service, Social Security, and food assistance programs, continue to function.

The embassy encouraged Nigerians seeking updates on consular services to visit travel.state.gov