Akpabio Links U.S. Embassy Closure to Global Security Fears

On April 8, 2026, Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President of Nigeria, addressed concerns regarding the U.S. embassy's closure in Nigeria, attributing it to global security fears rather than local political issues. The U.S.

Department of State had authorized the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their families from the embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security situation in Nigeria. Akpabio dismissed the notion that the embassy's closure was linked to Nigeria's elections, stating that such assumptions were misplaced.

He explained that the U.S. was taking precautionary measures due to rising tensions with adversaries like Iran, which could lead to attacks on embassies worldwide. Akpabio urged Nigerians to remain calm and reassured them of their safety, expressing confidence that Nigeria would remain secure despite global uncertainties.