The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025, in observance of Independence Day, the United States’ national holiday.
The announcement was made via the U.S. Mission’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, notifying the public that all routine consular services including visa interviews, passport renewals, and notarial appointments will be temporarily suspended during the closure.
Services Resume July 7
All consular services are expected to resume on Monday, July 7, 2025. U.S. citizens in Nigeria requiring urgent assistance during the holiday are encouraged to use the embassy’s emergency contact lines.
Why July 4 Matters
Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, marking America’s separation from British colonial rule. Celebrated annually with fireworks, parades, and patriotic events, the day reflects the United States’ founding values of freedom and democracy.
As part of global observance, U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide close on this day.
U.S.-Nigeria Ties Strengthen
In celebration of the 249th U.S. Independence anniversary, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills hosted a dinner in Abuja, highlighting robust diplomatic and economic relations between both countries:
- Bilateral trade between the U.S. and Nigeria hit $13 billion over the past year.
- U.S. foreign direct investment reached $6.5 billion in 2024, up 5.5% from 2022.
- Over 80 American companies operate in Nigeria across energy, agriculture, tech, and consumer goods sectors.
Mills also praised the Nigerian diaspora in the U.S., now estimated at over 750,000 people; the largest African community in America for their contributions in healthcare, finance, and tech industries.
Important Reminder
Individuals with scheduled visa or consular appointments on July 4 are advised to check for rescheduling information. Those traveling during this peak period should plan accordingly to avoid disruptions.
