Nigeria’s elections: US closes offices in Abuja, Lagos

The United States Embassy in Nigeria, has announce the closure of the its offices in Abuja and Lagos ahead of Nigeria’s general elections.

The US, in a statement on Friday, said it took the decision consequent upon the Federal Government’s declaration of Friday as work-free day.

The adherence to Nigeria government’s directive, the US also said will allow its Nigerian employees to prepare and participate in the rescheduled polls.

For those seeking the consular service within the holiday period, the US advised to reconsider their decision as no one would be available to attend to them.

Those whose appointment for regular visa or ACS has been fixed for February 22, the Embassy authorities would contact them for rescheduling.

The statement read: “The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Friday, February 22, 2019, as a Work-Free Day to enable Nigerians to prepare for the rescheduled Presidential and National Assembly Elections on Saturday, February 23, 2019.

“In recognition of this declaration and to encourage all our Nigerian employees to exercise their right to vote, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will be closed.

The Nigerian government through the Interior Ministry, had on Wednesday declared Friday a work-free to enable the electorate prepare for the polls.

It however excluded bankers and others offering essential services from the declaration.