The United States Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day.
The US Mission in Nigeria announced this in a statement posted on its official X account on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Normal operations at both locations will resume the following day.
The statement read:
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day.
“Originally established to honor George Washington’s birthday, Presidents’ Day now celebrates all U.S. presidents and their leadership in shaping the nation’s history and positively influencing the world.”
Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States, traditionally held on the third Monday in February. It was first created to mark the birthday of George Washington, the country’s first president (born February 22, 1732). Over the years, it has expanded to honour the achievements and contributions of all American presidents.
George Washington is also remembered for instituting the original “Badge of Military Merit” during the American Revolutionary War, which later became the Purple Heart — a military decoration still in use today that carries his likeness.
This holiday closure affects all US federal offices and diplomatic missions globally, including those in Nigeria. Individuals with appointments or urgent consular matters at the Abuja Embassy or Lagos Consulate should adjust their plans and monitor official US Embassy Nigeria channels or website for further information.
Regular services will resume after the public holiday.
