The American Embassy in Abuja serves as the diplomatic mission of the United States to Nigeria, facilitating a wide range of services for U.S. citizens, Nigerian nationals, and residents in Nigeria. The embassy plays a crucial role in fostering diplomatic relations, providing consular services, and promoting cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

American Embassy Abuja

About The U.S Embassy

The U.S. Embassy was officially established in Nigeria on October 1, 1960—the same day Nigeria attained independence from the United Kingdom. This historic moment was commemorated with a congratulatory message from the U.S. Secretary of State, Christian Herter, to the Nigerian people.

From 1966 to 1999, Nigeria experienced a series of military coups, but following the inauguration of a civilian president in 1999, the U.S.-Nigerian relationship began to improve. Cooperation on foreign policy goals, such as regional peacekeeping, strengthened ties between the two nations.

The Ambassador of the American Embassy in Nigeria

The current U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria is Richard M. Mills, Jr. Appointed in July 2024, Ambassador Mills brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously served as the Deputy Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations. His leadership is instrumental in guiding the embassy’s efforts to strengthen U.S.-Nigeria relations.

Services Offered at the American Consulate

Consular Services For U.S. Citizens:

1. Passport Services:

• Issuance of new passports and renewal of existing ones.
• Replacement of lost or stolen passports.

2. Notarial Services:

• Certification of documents.
• Administration of oaths and affidavits.
• Legalization of documents for use in the U.S.

3. Assistance in Emergencies:

• Support in cases of accidents, illness, or legal issues.
• Provision of information on local laws, healthcare, and security.

4. Reports of Birth Abroad:

• Registration of children born to U.S. citizens in Nigeria.
• Issuance of Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA).

Consular Services For Nigerian Nationals:

1. Visa Services:

• Non-immigrant Visas: For tourism, business, study, and work.
• Immigrant Visas: For permanent residency in the U.S.

2. Diversity Visa Lottery:

• Assistance with the application process for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program.
• Exchange Programs: Information and support for various educational and cultural exchange programs.

Diplomatic and Bilateral Relations

1. Political Affairs:

• Strengthening diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Nigeria.
• Engaging in political dialogue and negotiations on bilateral and multilateral issues.

2. Economic and Trade Relations:

• Promoting U.S. economic interests and trade relations in Nigeria.
• Supporting U.S. companies doing business in Nigeria.
• Organizing and participating in economic and trade-related events.

3. Cultural and Educational Exchange:

• Promoting U.S. culture and educational opportunities in Nigeria.
• Facilitating cultural exchanges and partnerships between U.S. and Nigerian institutions.

4. Development Cooperation:

• Supporting development projects and initiatives in Nigeria.
• Collaborating with local and international organizations to promote sustainable development.

Additional Services

1. Information and Support:

• Providing information on U.S. policies, culture, and travel guidelines.
• Offering support and resources for U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Nigeria.

2. Event Organization:

• Hosting and participating in events that promote U.S. interests and foster bilateral relations.

3. Networking Opportunities:

• Facilitating networking opportunities for U.S. and Nigerian businesses, cultural entities, and academic institutions.

How to Apply for Services at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja

Applying for services at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja can seem daunting, but following these steps can simplify the process. Here’s a guide on how to apply for various services offered by the embassy, including visas, passports, and other consular services.

Visa Applications

A. Non-Immigrant Visas

These visas are for individuals visiting the U.S. temporarily for tourism, business, study, or work.

Steps:

1. Determine Your Visa Type: Visit the embassy’s website to find the appropriate visa type.
2. Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the online visa application form and print the confirmation page.
3. Pay the Visa Fee: Fees can be paid at designated banks or online.
4. Schedule an Appointment: Use the embassy’s scheduling system to book your visa interview.
5. Prepare for the Interview: Gather required documents such as your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee receipt, and any other supporting documents.
6. Attend the Interview: Arrive at the embassy on time for your interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip and provide any additional documentation requested by the consular officer.

B. Immigrant Visas

These visas are for individuals planning to live permanently in the U.S.

Steps:

1. File a Petition: A family member or employer in the U.S. must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
2. Wait for Petition Approval: Once approved, your case will be transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing.
3. Complete the DS-260 Form: Fill out the online immigrant visa application form.
4. Pay the Visa Fee: Instructions will be provided by the NVC.
5. Submit Supporting Documents: Send required documents to the NVC as instructed.
6. Attend the Medical Examination: Complete a medical exam with an embassy-approved physician.
7. Schedule and Attend the Interview: Book and attend your visa interview at the embassy. Bring all required documents, including your passport, DS-260 confirmation page, medical examination results, and any other requested documents.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by US Mission Nigeria (@usinnigeria)

Get in Touch

Open:

• Consular Section: Monday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Friday: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
• General Inquiries: Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Address: Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area, Abuja.

Phone: +234 209 461 4000 or 0209 461 4000

Instagram: @usinnigeria

Facebook: The American Embassy Abuja

Website: www.ng.usembassy.gov

Frequently Asked Questions About the American Embassy in Abuja

1. How can I apply for a U.S. visa in Abuja?

You can apply for a U.S. visa by visiting the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria and following the instructions provided for the specific type of visa you need. It’s important to complete the online application form, pay the visa fee, and schedule an appointment for an interview at the embassy.

2. What should I do if I lose my U.S. passport in Nigeria?

If you lose your U.S. passport while in Nigeria, you should immediately report the loss to the U.S. Embassy in Abuja. The consular section can assist you in applying for a replacement passport.

3. How do I register the birth of my child born in Nigeria?

To register the birth of a child born to U.S. citizens in Nigeria, you need to schedule an appointment with the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja. You will need to provide proof of the parents’ U.S. citizenship, the child’s birth certificate, and other relevant documents.

4. Can I seek assistance from the embassy in case of an emergency?

Yes, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja provides assistance to U.S. citizens in emergency situations, such as accidents, illness, or legal issues. You can contact the consular section for support and guidance.

5. How can I contact the embassy for general inquiries?

For general inquiries, you can contact the U.S. Embassy in Abuja via phone at +234 9 461 4000 or email at [email protected].

Final Thoughts

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja plays a vital role in supporting U.S. citizens, fostering diplomatic relations, and promoting cultural and economic ties between the United States and Nigeria.