US embassy, consulate in Nigeria shut down temporarily

The United States Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will temporarily close on Thursday, January 9, 2025, in honor of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100.

In a statement shared on its official X account on Wednesday, the U.S. Mission to Nigeria announced the closure. Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, served from 1977 to 1981 and was renowned for his commitment to peacebuilding, democratic principles, and human rights advocacy. He also authored several books during his lifetime.

The statement highlighted Carter’s significant contributions to U.S.-Nigeria relations, noting, “We remember former President Jimmy Carter, a tireless advocate for peace, democracy, and human rights. As the first U.S. President to visit Nigeria, he strengthened U.S.-Nigeria relations and supported Nigeria’s democratic process. His legacy continues to inspire us.”

The temporary closure reflects the profound respect for Carter’s legacy and his significant contributions to global diplomacy, including his efforts to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Nigeria.