The Nigerian government has expressed “deep concern” over the United States’ decision to impose tighter visa restrictions on its citizens, describing the new measures as disproportionate and urging a reconsideration “in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.”
The revised policy—announced by the U.S. Department of State and effective from July 8—limits the validity of most non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians to just three months and a single entry. The move affects popular categories such as the B1/B2 business and tourism visa, the F visa for students, and the J exchange visitor visa.
The development adds to a growing wave of international entry restrictions targeting Nigerian passport holders. The United Arab Emirates recently banned Nigerians aged 18 to 45 from applying for tourist visas unless accompanied, while imposing steep financial requirements for those aged above 45. Meanwhile, the British High Commission in Abuja has also adjusted the UK’s visa application process for Nigerians seeking to study or work in the country.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on Wednesday, said the government viewed the U.S. decision with “keen interest,” especially given the historical strength of U.S.-Nigeria relations and people-to-people ties.
“The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations,” said ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa.
The ministry acknowledged the sovereign right of all nations to shape their immigration policies but cautioned that the restrictions could disrupt educational, cultural, and professional exchanges that have long underpinned Nigeria-U.S. ties.
In response, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo led a delegation to meet U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr. on Wednesday. The meeting, attended by senior immigration officials, focused on visa reciprocity, compliance, and improving the transparency and security of travel documentation processes.
Tunji-Ojo said on X (formerly Twitter) that the two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation and “promote responsible travel practices among Nigerian citizens.” He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to tightening controls on visa overstays and improving information sharing on security concerns.
While the U.S. Embassy explained the move as part of a global effort to harmonise visa reciprocity and enhance security, it stressed that existing visas would remain valid until expiry. The new rules apply only to visas issued from July 8 onward.
The embassy cited benchmarks such as the need for secure travel documents, effective overstay management, and criminal data sharing as prerequisites for revisiting visa terms.
Despite the diplomatic tension, the U.S. maintained that it was committed to “maintaining a strong bilateral relationship with Nigeria” and encouraged Nigerian travellers to comply strictly with visa conditions.
Commenting on the policy, retired Nigerian diplomat Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie described the move as temporary and subject to review, calling for a reciprocal response. “When the policy is reviewed by the other party, Nigeria should also do the same,” he said, while noting that diplomats and official delegations are exempt from the new rules.
Foreign affairs analyst Charles Onunaiju linked the trend to a broader shift in U.S. immigration and foreign policy, especially under the influence of former President Donald Trump’s brand of “inverse nationalism.”
“This is part of the Trumpian resurgence of restrictive immigration and disruptive diplomacy. Nigeria mustn’t respond with a frontal pushback but rather adopt a broader strategy—diversifying and strengthening global partnerships to reduce reliance on traditional allies,” Onunaiju said.
As global travel becomes increasingly politicised, analysts warn that Nigerians could face even more barriers in the years ahead, making it imperative for Abuja to recalibrate its foreign policy to protect mobility rights and expand global access for its citizens.
