The United States Embassy in Abuja and the United States Consulate General Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday in the United States.
The closure will affect routine consular services, including visa interviews and passport processing. Regular operations are expected to resume on the next business day.
Presidents’ Day was originally established to commemorate the birthday of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Over time, the holiday evolved to honour all U.S. presidents and their contributions to the country’s governance, democratic institutions, and global engagement.
Observed annually on the third Monday of February, the holiday provides Americans an opportunity to reflect on the leadership, public service, and historical milestones associated with the nation’s highest office.
Washington, who led the American colonies to independence and later presided over the Constitutional Convention, also introduced the “Badge of Military Merit” in 1782 to recognise acts of bravery and faithful service by enlisted soldiers. The decoration later evolved into the Purple Heart, one of the United States’ most recognised military honours, and it still bears Washington’s image today.
The US Mission in Nigeria routinely observes both American and Nigerian public holidays as part of its diplomatic calendar.
