US Embassy Nigeria services for visas and passports remain active despite the US government shutdown, ensuring essential consular support continues

US Embassy Nigeria services will continue despite the partial shutdown of the United States government, the mission confirmed on Wednesday.

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The embassy reassured Nigerians that scheduled passport and visa services will remain operational as the situation permits.

In a notice posted on its official X handle, the embassy explained that its social media accounts would not be updated regularly until government funding is restored, except for urgent safety and security announcements.

The partial shutdown began after US lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to reach a budget agreement, sparked by disagreements over Democratic demands for health care funding.

While essential services, including the military, postal service, and welfare programmes like Social Security, continue to operate, around 750,000 federal workers could be sent home daily without pay.

This closure is the first US government shutdown since the record 35-day closure during Trump’s first term nearly seven years ago.

Historically, shutdowns occur when Congress and the President fail to approve a spending plan, forcing many federal departments and agencies to halt operations until a deal is reached.

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Nigerians planning travel are advised to check travel.state.gov for updates on consular services, including visa appointments and passport processing, as the US Embassy maintains operations for essential services despite the lapse in appropriations.