The United States Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria has announced.

In a notice posted on its official X handle, the U.S. Mission stated: “The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day.”

Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday in the United States, was originally established to honour the birth of America’s first president, George Washington. Over time, the commemoration evolved to celebrate all U.S. presidents and their contributions to the nation’s development and global influence.

Explaining the significance of the day, the mission noted: “Originally established to honour George Washington’s birthday, Presidents’ Day now celebrates all U.S. presidents and their leadership in shaping the nation’s history and positively influencing the world.”

The embassy also highlighted a historical fact about Washington’s legacy, stating: “#DYK? George Washington created the first ‘Badge of Military Merit,’ which later became the Purple Heart, and the medal still bears his image today.”

The Purple Heart remains one of the United States’ most recognised military decorations, awarded to service members wounded or killed in action.

Normal diplomatic and consular services are expected to resume on Tuesday, February 17, following the public holiday observance.