The United States Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will remain closed on Monday, January 19, 2026, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
The US Mission in Nigeria made the announcement on its official X handle on Sunday.
“The US Embassy in Abuja and Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, January 19, 2026, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day,” the post read.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed each year on the third Monday of January, to honour the legacy of the civil rights leader who championed racial equality and nonviolent protest.
The holiday was officially established on November 2, 1983, when President Ronald Reagan signed a bill recognising the commemoration. It was first celebrated on January 20, 1986, marking Dr. King’s birthday on January 15.
This closure means that Nigerians and other residents who rely on US diplomatic services will experience a one-day pause in operations.
Emergency services for citizens, however, will remain accessible through designated channels.
Both facilities are expected to resume normal operations on Tuesday, January 20.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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