On October 17, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja issued a security alert to American citizens regarding possible demonstrations planned for Monday, October 20th. The alert comes as the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest group has called for peaceful demonstrations in the city.
According to the Embassy, disruptions such as roadblocks and traffic congestion are expected around Eagle Square and the Central Business District. There is also a possibility of confrontations between police and protesters that could escalate into violence. "The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th. The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff that travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well."
The advisory outlines several precautionary steps for U.S. citizens: avoiding protest areas and crowds, exercising caution near large gatherings, monitoring local media for updates, keeping a low profile, reviewing personal security plans, carrying proper identification, staying alert in public places such as shopping centers and places of worship, familiarizing themselves with emergency exits when entering buildings, and varying travel routes and times.
Despite the planned demonstrations, both the Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos will remain open on October 20th. The Embassy encourages individuals to monitor its official website for further updates at https://ng.usembassy.gov/.
For assistance or emergencies, contact details for both the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and Consulate General in Lagos were provided along with information about enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for ongoing security updates.