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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has moved to calm fears among Nigerians that the ongoing partial shutdown of the US government could disrupt consular operations.
In a statement shared on its official X handle on Wednesday, the embassy confirmed that visa and passport services would continue despite funding challenges in Washington.
“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 notice read.
It added: “At this time, scheduled passport and visa transit services in the United States and at U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits.”
The clarification comes after concerns mounted among Nigerians—particularly students and prospective travelers—that the shutdown might stall visa processing and other essential services.
While the embassy stressed that consular functions remain operational, it noted that its social media platforms would only post critical safety alerts until government funding is restored.
The shutdown, which began after US President Donald Trump and lawmakers failed to reach a budget compromise, has forced several federal agencies to suspend operations. The deadlock reportedly centers on Democratic demands for healthcare funding, which Republicans strongly oppose.
Defending the closure, Trump suggested it could help him eliminate Democratic-linked programs. Essential services such as the military, postal operations, and welfare schemes like Social Security and food stamps remain unaffected.
However, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to 750,000 federal employees risk being furloughed without pay each day until a funding deal is struck.
This is the first US government shutdown since the record-breaking 35-day closure nearly seven years ago, during Trump’s first term. Since 1976, the US has experienced 21 shutdowns triggered by budget disputes between Congress and the White House.
The embassy urged Nigerians seeking updates on consular services, including visa appointments and passport processing, to rely on travel.state.gov for verified information.