New Visa Restrictions On Nigerians: FG Sends Message To US Gov’t, Says It Should Reconsider Policy
The Federal Government on Wednesday, 9 July, 2025 has called on the United States of America to reconsider its new visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens, reports Business Today NG.
Recall that Business Today NG reported that US government had earlier announced changes to its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigeria, limiting the validity of certain non-immigrant visas—such as the B1/B2 (business and tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor) categories—to just three months with single entry.
The restrictions took effect on July 8, 2025.
The Federal Government, Reacting to the development, described the move as “concerning” and “misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect.”
The federal government , which stated this through a statement issued on Wednesday, 9 July, 2025 by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said, “The Federal Government views this development with concern and keen interest, particularly given the longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties between our two countries.”
According to the statement, the new policy would affect a wide range of Nigerians—including students seeking education, professionals involved in business, and families planning legitimate visits to the United States.
“The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations,” Ebienfa stated.
Ebienfa also added in the statement that while it respects the sovereign rights of all nations to determine their immigration policies, it expects decisions of such magnitude to be guided by fairness.
“While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies, Nigeria respectfully urges the United States to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities,” the statement added.
Diplomatic engagements, according to the ministry, are currently ongoing.
