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US Embassy says consular operations remain unaffected by Washington gridlock
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Social media updates suspended except for urgent safety information
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Nigerians urged to confirm travel plans amid political deadlock in US
The United State, US Embassy in Nigeria has confirmed that visa and passport services will not be disrupted despite the ongoing partial shutdown of the US government.
In a statement released on its official X handle on Wednesday, the embassy assured that essential consular operations would continue uninterrupted.
“Due to the lapse in appropriations, this X account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, with the exception of urgent safety and security information. At this time, scheduled passport and visa transit services in the United States and at U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits,” the embassy declared.
Concerns Over Impact on Nigerians
The announcement follows growing anxiety among Nigerians, particularly students and travellers, over potential disruptions to visa processing, consular appointments, and other related services.
The shutdown, which began after US lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to reach a budget agreement, has forced several federal agencies to suspend operations. The standoff is linked to disputes between Democrats pushing for health care funding and Republicans resisting the proposal.
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Wider Implications in Washington
According to the Congressional Budget Office, as many as 750,000 federal workers may be sent home without pay daily until a new spending plan is approved. Essential services, including the military, postal service, Social Security, and food stamps, will however remain operational.
The current closure is the first since the record 35-day shutdown during Trump’s first term nearly seven years ago. Since 1976, the US has recorded 21 shutdowns triggered by political deadlocks over budget approvals.
Advisory to Nigerians
The embassy advised Nigerians to monitor travel.state.gov for updates on visa appointments, passport processing, and any changes to consular schedules.
