The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reassured applicants that visa and passport services will continue despite the ongoing partial shutdown of the US government.
In a notice issued via its official X handle on Wednesday, the embassy explained that while its social media accounts would not be updated regularly during the funding lapse, scheduled passport and visa services in the US and at embassies and consulates overseas would remain operational “as the situation permits.”
“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,” the statement read.
The clarification comes amid rising concerns among Nigerians that the shutdown in Washington could disrupt visa processing, student travel plans and other consular services.
The shutdown began after US lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to reach an agreement on a budget deal, with the dispute rooted in Democratic demands for increased healthcare funding, which Republicans opposed. Trump, defending the closure, argued it could help cut down on programmes aligned with Democrats’ priorities.
While essential services such as the military, postal services and social welfare schemes like Social Security and food stamps will not be affected, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that about 750,000 federal workers could be sent home daily without pay until a funding agreement is reached.
This marks the first government shutdown since the record 35-day closure nearly seven years ago during Trump’s first term. The US has recorded 21 shutdowns since 1976, when the modern budget process began.
Nigerians seeking updates on consular services, including visa appointments and passport processing, have been advised to visit travel.state.gov for official guidance.
