The United States on Friday shut its Nigerian embassy in Abuja and consulate in Lagos citing security reasons, US diplomats said.

"We have closed (them) for security interest of the United States," a US diplomatic source in Lagos said on condition of anonymity. "We can't give details of security problems."

Another diplomat confirmed from Abuja, saying "we are closed. We shall be open on Monday." Nigerian newspapers also said the closure started on Thursday but lasts only two days.

Nigerian police chief Sunday Ehindero has ordered security reinforcement in and around the US embassy and consulate while long queues of cars were seen on Friday morning outside the consulate in Lagos, waiting for police check.

A statement issued on Thursday by the US embassy said the closure was due to "a security issue of mutual concern to the United States Mission in Nigeria and to the Government of Nigeria."

"This security issue is being addressed with the help and close collaboration of relevant Nigerian authorities," the statement said.

Britain also closed its Nigerian High Commission office in Lagos due to a "security reason," reports said.

The US had earlier expressed concern about the influence of al Qaeda terrorist network in Nigeria.
 
(Xinhua News Agency June 18, 2005)