Abuja, Nigeria – March 28, 2025 – The United States Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria has issued a security alert to American citizens in the country, warning them about planned protests by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN). The embassy highlighted possible safety risks in Abuja and other major cities, urging citizens to remain cautious and avoid certain areas.
The embassy’s statement, released on Thursday, March 27, noted that the demonstrations are expected to take place on Friday, March 28, in connection with International Quds Day. The protests may cause heavy traffic, roadblocks, checkpoints, and possible physical confrontations.
Americans in Nigeria were strongly advised to avoid the following locations in Abuja:
Bannex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, National Human Rights Commission, Eagle Square, Area 10 Shopping Plaza, National Mosque, Al-Noor Mosque, and Fouad Lababidi Mosque.
To remain safe, the embassy advised Americans to avoid protest areas and crowds, stay alert, monitor local news, keep their phones charged, carry valid identification, and update their personal safety plans. It also confirmed that the Consular Sections of the Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos would remain open.
The protest by the IMN is part of the annual Quds Day procession, which was established in 1979 by Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Quds Day is observed globally on the last Friday of Ramadan and is aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians and condemning the occupation of Jerusalem and other injustices.
During Friday’s protest in Abuja, a violent clash reportedly broke out between security personnel and IMN members at Banex Roundabout in Wuse 2. Jafaar Gali, one of the protest leaders, said the procession began after Friday prayers and turned chaotic when soldiers attempted to halt it. He claimed that some of their members were injured or killed, though this has not been independently verified. Another IMN member said that some bodies were taken to Mararaba, Nasarawa State.
In a separate development, the US Embassy also issued a reminder to Nigerian visa holders about the consequences of overstaying. The embassy emphasized that even unintentional violations could lead to permanent travel bans, as consular officers have full access to immigration records.
The embassy further warned against visa fraud, stating that providing false information or documents during visa applications could result in permanent ineligibility to enter the United States. Applicants were urged to be honest and transparent to avoid irreversible consequences.
As security tensions rise, the US Embassy has reiterated its commitment to the safety of Americans in Nigeria and encouraged them to follow all recommended precautions.
