FG Breaks Silence On U.S. Visa Crackdown: ‘This Is A Diplomatic Red Flag

The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged the United States to reconsider its recent decision to reduce most Nigerian non-immigrant visas to single-entry with a three-month validity period.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

This appeal was made in a statement released by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Nigerian government expressed concern that the U.S. decision appears inconsistent with the principles of reciprocity, fairness, and mutual respect that should underpin diplomatic relations between friendly nations.

The statement also noted that the new visa restriction imposes significant challenges on Nigerians intending to travel to the U.S. for academic, business, professional, or personal reasons.

It should be recalled that the U.S. Department of State recently updated its visa reciprocity policy for Nigerian nationals, limiting categories such as B1/B2, F, and J visas to a single entry valid for only three months. The change, announced by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, took immediate effect.

Reacting to the policy shift, the Nigerian government emphasized its disappointment, citing the historically strong ties and people-to-people connections between the two countries.

“The government considers this move as troubling, especially considering the longstanding and friendly bilateral relations,” the statement read.

“This policy places an unfair burden on Nigerian students, professionals, families, and others pursuing lawful travel, educational pursuits, or cultural exchange.”

Nigeria, while respecting the sovereign right of every nation to set immigration rules, appealed to the U.S. to review the decision in the spirit of partnership and global cooperation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Nigeria committed to reaching a fair resolution that reflects mutual respect and shared interests.