By Obinna Uballa
The United States Embassy Abuja has issued a security alert warning of possible protests in the Federal Capital Territory on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing heightened tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The New Diplomat had reported sporadic protests in some Northern states and Lagos by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shites, following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In a statement released to U.S. citizens on Wednesday, the embassy said there is a “high potential for protests” in Abuja and advised Americans residing in or visiting the city to remain indoors.
“Previous protests by some groups have resulted in violent clashes between the group and Nigerian security forces,” the mission stated, urging caution.
The embassy strongly recommended that U.S. citizens in Abuja stay in their residences throughout Wednesday and avoid areas where demonstrations may occur.
The advisory also outlined a series of precautionary measures, including avoiding large gatherings, steering clear of protest locations, and monitoring local media for updates. Citizens were urged to remain vigilant in public places such as shopping centres, cinemas and places of worship.
The mission advised Americans to review their personal security plans, keep mobile phones fully charged, carry valid identification and maintain a low profile. It also encouraged varying travel routes and times to reduce predictability, and becoming familiar with emergency exits when entering buildings.
Despite the warning, the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the United States Consulate General Lagos remain open, according to the statement. The mission advised citizens to monitor its official website for further updates.
Emergency contact numbers were provided for U.S. nationals requiring assistance, including dedicated lines at the embassy in Abuja and the consulate in Lagos, as well as the U.S. State Department’s Consular Affairs bureau in Washington.
While the statement did not specify the groups expected to stage protests, it linked the alert to the “current conflict with Iran,” noting that past demonstrations in Abuja have escalated into confrontations with security forces.
Washington had on Sunday issued a global security alert to US citizens in Nigeria and around the world amid escalating hostilities between the US and Iran.
The alert, issued by the state department, urged Americans to exercise increased caution following recent US attacks against Iran.
The advisory warned that evolving security conditions could affect travel and safety, including potential interruptions to air travel.
“Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate,” the advisory reads.
“They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures. The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution.”
The alert also recommended that US citizens enrol in the smart traveler enrollment program (STEP) to receive timely security updates.
The statement encouraged American citizens to follow the “U.S. Department of State Security Updates for US Citizens” WhatsApp channel for further information.
