Suggestions




Nigeria Slams New U.S. Visa Policy, Calls For Reconsideration

July 9, 2025
by

The Nigerian Government has reacted strongly to the recent decision by the United States to impose tighter visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens, describing the move as “disproportionate” and urging a reconsideration in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.

On Tuesday, 8 July, the United States Department of State announced an immediate policy change reducing the validity of most non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians from multiple years to just three months, and limiting them to single entry. The affected visa categories include the B1/B2 (business and tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor) classes.

Join our WhatsApp Channel

In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria expressed concern over the new restrictions, emphasizing that they could undermine the long-standing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between both nations. The government said the decision does not reflect the principles of equity and reciprocity upon which bilateral relations should be built.

“The Federal Government views this policy as disproportionate and inconsistent with the mutual respect and cooperation that has traditionally defined Nigeria–U.S. relations,” said Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the ministry.

The new visa regime marks a significant shift from previous U.S. policy, which allowed Nigerian citizens to receive multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years. Under the revised rules, Nigerians will now be required to reapply and undergo consular processing for each visit to the United States, an administrative and financial burden that critics say may deter travel for education, business, and family reasons.

READ ALSO: U.S. Restricts Nigerian Non-Immigrant Visas To Single Entry, Three-month Validity

While the U.S. government described the measure as a “reciprocity adjustment,” Nigerian authorities argue that the country continues to offer American citizens more generous visa conditions, including multi-year and multiple-entry options.

Ebienfa noted that thousands of Nigerians travel to the United States annually for academic pursuits, professional engagements, medical care, and to maintain family and cultural ties, adding that the new limitations will significantly affect these interactions.

“The Federal Government calls on the United States to reconsider this decision and to engage in constructive dialogue that will lead to a mutually beneficial outcome,” he stated.

READ ALSO: UAE Bans Transit Visas For Nigerian Travellers, Imposes Tougher Entry Conditions

Diplomatic sources confirmed that efforts are already underway to address the issue through official channels. Nigeria said it remains committed to a strong and strategic partnership with the United States and hopes for a resolution that upholds the dignity and interests of both countries’ citizens.

The development comes amid broader concerns that restrictive visa policies could strain U.S. engagement in Africa, particularly at a time when other global powers are vying for influence across the continent.

As discussions continue, affected Nigerians are being advised to plan travel well in advance, review visa eligibility requirements closely, and seek guidance from relevant authorities or legal experts when necessary.

+ posts

Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

Amanze Chinonye

Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

Related Posts

Previous Story

Naira Stability: Analysts Project Nigeria’s FX Reserves To Hit $41bn By Year End

Next Story

Valuation Of Nigerian Stock Market Rises To N76.97trn — Up By N220bn

Featured Stories

Related Posts

Latest from News

Dangote Cement

Dangote Cement Records 20% Increase in 2025 Revenue

Dangote Cement Plc reported a 20.3 percent rise in revenue to 4.31 trillion naira ($2.7 billion) for the year ending Dec. 31, 2025, driven by higher prices in key markets, the company said in a filing to the Nigerian Exchange Limited. The

Iran Leadership “Safe” After Strikes – Foreign Minister

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said the country’s top leadership remains intact following large-scale strikes by the United States and Israel. Speaking to US media, he said Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was alive “as far as I know” and that all senior
Minister of Works Engr David Umahi

Umahi Denies Sexual Harassment, N200 Million Debt Claims

Minister of Works, David Umahi, on Saturday denied allegations of sexual harassment and financial misconduct, including claims that he owes a businesswoman, Tracynither Ohiri, 200 million naira for campaign materials supplied during his 2014 governorship bid. The accusations, which have gained traction

Tinubu Reappoints NSCDC Commandant-General Audi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reappointed Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi as Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for a second five-year term, effective February 27, 2026. The announcement came in a statement on Saturday from Bayo Onanuga, the

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is confirmed dead

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has been reported dead following coordinated U.S.–Israeli airstrikes on Tehran, according to Fox News and Reuters, both citing senior Israeli officials. Israeli sources said Khamenei was killed when his fortified compound was struck during the early phase
Previous Story

Naira Stability: Analysts Project Nigeria’s FX Reserves To Hit $41bn By Year End

Next Story

Valuation Of Nigerian Stock Market Rises To N76.97trn — Up By N220bn

Don't Miss

NDLEA Intercepts 24,311kgs Heroin, Codeine In Lagos

NDLEA Intercepts 24,311kgs Heroin, Codeine In Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has intercepted more
Govt Appeals Nnamdi Kanu's Discharge 7 Days After

Govt Appeals Nnamdi Kanu’s Discharge 7 Days After

Nigerian Government has filed an appeal at the Supreme Court