The United States Mission in Nigeria has addressed concerns surrounding the recent revision of visa policies affecting Nigerian citizens, stating that the move is part of a broader global strategy and not a reaction to Nigeria’s internal or foreign policy decisions.
In a statement released Friday, US officials clarified that the reduction in validity for most non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian applicants from five-year multiple-entry visas to three-month single-entry visas is not politically motivated.
The Mission emphasized that the adjustment is driven by technical and security considerations, and forms part of a worldwide review of visa policies aimed at strengthening the integrity of the US immigration system.
“This change is unrelated to Nigeria’s handling of third-country deportees, its implementation of electronic visa systems, or its relationship with international alliances such as BRICS,” the statement noted.
Responding to public reaction over the new visa terms, the US Mission reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between both countries. It also expressed a willingness to continue working with Nigerian authorities to meet international travel and security standards.
“We value our cooperation with Nigeria and remain committed to fostering secure and beneficial travel for both nations,” the statement concluded.
The clarification follows strong reactions across Nigeria earlier this week when news broke about the new visa limitations, marking a notable shift from the previous multi-entry arrangement that allowed Nigerian visitors a five year validity period.
