The United States Embassy has announced the temporary closure of its consular services and appointments in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja till further notice.

According to a statement it released on its website on Tuesday, the embassy said consular operations in Lagos would however not be affected by the decision.

Although no reason has been given for the suspension, the Consulate explained that appointments for visa and for American citizen services have also been put on hold temporarily.

“Until further notice, all consular appointments at the US Embassy in Abuja have temporarily ceased for both visa and for American Citizen Services.

“Consular functions in U.S. Consulate Lagos are not affected and will continue. Scheduled visa and ACS applicants for Abuja will be contacted for rescheduling,” the statement read.

The Embassy also directed American citizens in the north with emergency services needs to continue to contact the after-hours emergency number for Abuja at 09461-4000 or press “0” to go to the operator to request assistance.

It further directed its citizens in the northern part of Nigeria with urgent travel needs  and those who intend to travel before Tuesday and are willing to re-schedule their travel through Lagos to contact the ACS office at Consulate Lagos (01460 3400 and LagosACS@state.gov) to discuss their options.

“Those travelling after Tuesday should follow up with Abuja ACS to confirm their appointments closer to their appointment date.

“Please monitor the Facebook and Webpage of the US Embassy for a later announcement of resumed consular operations in Abuja,” the statement added.