U.S. Mission in Nigeria to Pause Operations for Memorial Day as Prof. Usman Yusuf’s Family Appeals for Help

As the United States prepares to mark Memorial Day, its diplomatic mission in Nigeria — including the Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos — will halt operations on Monday, May 26, 2025. In an official statement disseminated through its verified 𝕏 account, the U.S. Mission confirmed the closure, citing Memorial Day as a time for national reflection and tribute to American military personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The announcement underscores the holiday’s historical significance, noting that Memorial Day is observed annually on the final Monday of May. This solemn day is commemorated across the U.S. with parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and flags flown at half-mast in memory of the nation’s fallen servicemen and women.

According to the embassy, standard consular services will not be available on May 26, but routine operations will resume the following day, Tuesday, May 27. For individuals requiring emergency consular support during the closure, the U.S. Mission advised visiting its official website for updated contact details.

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Memorial Day Observance Highlights Diplomatic Pause and Human Rights Concerns

As the U.S. honors its heroes, another human interest story involving American citizens is drawing attention — this time with diplomatic undertones. The family of Professor Usman Yusuf, a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, is appealing to U.S. authorities for intervention following his detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Professor Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), is currently embroiled in a legal case involving five counts of alleged embezzlement and abuse of office during his term from 2016 to 2019. The EFCC accuses him of approving the purchase of a vehicle for ₦49.2 million, significantly above the ₦30 million budget.

Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court had earlier remanded Prof. Yusuf to Kuje Correctional Facility, delaying his bail ruling until February 27. In a recent development, the court has since granted him bail, though the terms remain undisclosed.

In light of these events, Prof. Yusuf’s family has turned to the United States government for support. His wife, Iftikar Abdallah Yusuf, in a letter dated February 18, 2025, addressed a plea to the American Embassy titled, “Re: Request For Consular Assistance For My Husband, Professor Usman Yusuf.” She argued that her husband is facing political persecution and that his rights have been systematically violated by Nigerian authorities.

“He was abducted from our home without an arrest warrant, denied access to his lawyers and family, and denied timely medical attention,” she wrote, stressing that her husband’s constitutional rights have been repeatedly breached.

Adding their voices to the appeal, Yusuf’s sons — Abdullah, Adnan, and Luqman — addressed a separate letter to U.S. Senator Richard J. Durbin of Illinois, demanding urgent diplomatic action under the title: “Re: Request for the Immediate Release of Our Father, Prof Usman Yusuf.”

The family emphasized their dual citizenship status and highlighted concerns over due process, health risks, and political motivations behind the charges. They called for consular access and fair treatment under Nigerian and international law.

While the U.S. Embassy has yet to release an official response regarding this matter, the family’s appeal raises broader questions about the intersection of diplomatic support, dual citizenship rights, and legal protections for Americans abroad.

As Nigeria observes diplomatic quietude due to the U.S. holiday, the situation surrounding Prof. Yusuf remains a point of legal and diplomatic intrigue. His case, coupled with his family’s vocal advocacy, could influence bilateral discussions on human rights, justice, and international intervention moving forward.