Did US shut its embassy in Nigeria over insecurity as claimed?
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Contrary to viral social media claims suggesting that the United States closed its office in Nigeria, DUBAWA, a leading fact-checking organization in West Africa, has confirmed that the claim is false. The rumor, which circulated widely on platforms like WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter), misrepresented a public holiday announcement from the U.S. Embassy as a shutdown of its operations in Nigeria.
DUBAWA traced the claim to a misinterpretation of a message issued by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja on July 4, 2025, which announced the closure of consular operations in observance of U.S. Independence Day. The embassy routinely closes on American and Nigerian public holidays, and this announcement was no different from standard procedure.
However, several social media users and blogs twisted the wording to claim that the U.S. had “shut down” or “abandoned” Nigeria, fueling panic and misinformation. DUBAWA contacted the U.S. Mission directly and confirmed that the office was only temporarily closed for the holiday and resumed full operations the next working day.
This incident is one of many examples of how contextual misinformation can easily spread online, especially in politically sensitive climates. DUBAWA urged the public to verify information from credible sources and warned that such false narratives could undermine diplomatic relations or spark unnecessary fear.
The organization reiterated the importance of media literacy and encouraged Nigerians to cross-check claims with official government or diplomatic channels before sharing unverified reports.
For the full fact-check and evidence, visit: DUBAWA’s report.
