The Federal Government, in response to the United States’ new visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens, has called on Washington to reconsider the policy.
The 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.
Reacting to the development, the Federal Government described the move as “concerning” and “misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government 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.”
The statement added that 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.
The Federal Government also said 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.
