U.S. Shuts Embassy, Consulate in Nigeria to Honour Late President Buhari

The United States Mission in Nigeria has closed its Embassy in Abuja and Consulate General in Lagos today, Tuesday, July 15, in honour of Nigeria’s late former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

In a statement released late Monday, the Mission said the closure was in observance of the public holiday declared by the Nigerian government as part of national mourning for the former leader, who died on Sunday in London at the age of 82.

“All consular services and visa appointments scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, have been postponed,” the U.S. Mission stated. “New appointment dates will be communicated to affected applicants via email.”

The Embassy and Consulate are expected to resume normal operations on Wednesday, July 16.

The closure by the United States comes as part of a broader show of international respect for the late Nigerian leader, who served as the country’s democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023, and previously as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier declared Tuesday a work-free day nationwide and approved a state burial for Buhari, describing him as “a true patriot who dedicated his life to the unity and progress of Nigeria.”

Tributes continue to pour in from world leaders and diplomatic missions, with the United Nations, United Kingdom, African Union, and now the United States all publicly mourning Buhari’s passing.

A state funeral is scheduled to take place today in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari’s hometown, where President Tinubu is expected to lead a high-level government delegation to receive and inter the late leader’s remains.

The U.S. Mission’s gesture reflects the enduring diplomatic ties between Washington and Abuja, as well as the deep international significance of Buhari’s contributions to regional stability, anti-corruption reforms, and democratic governance.