President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has given his reaction to concerns revolving the said closure of the United States Embassy in Nigeria, linking such moves to international security fears rather than local political issue.
Recall that JESNews correspondent reported that on Wednesday, 8th April 2026, the United States Department of State had authorised the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their families from its embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security situation across Nigeria.
In a travel advisory afterwards, the department said the directive took effect from April 8, 2026, warning American citizens to reconsider travel to the country over rising concerns including crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and inconsistent healthcare services.
And speaking at the commissioning of the new NRS headquarters in Abuja, Akpabio rubbishled claims that embassies were shutting down because of Nigeria election, noting that such assumptions were misplaced.
“Some people say that even now, some embassies are closing down. Not many embassies are actually closing; many of the embassies are afraid of repercussions from their foes.
“For instance, I can say that America is a bit worried about a bomb blast from Iran, and so across the world they have to reduce their staff in case Iran decides to attack their embassies,” Akpabio stated.
He warned Nigerians against linking such developments to internal politics
“But people are thinking, oh, Nigerian embassies are closing because election is coming. It’s not because election is coming. Election will come and go, and God will protect you,” added the Senate president.
