*Says new rules impose a ‘disproportionate burden’
*Scope and immediacy, warrants a second look through the lens of partnership and shared interests
By Yahaya Umar, Abuja
Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its dissatisfaction over the United States’ recent visa policy, saying “This decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations”.
The government also pointed out that the policy is affecting Nigerian citizens and urged the U.S. to reconsider a directive that reduces the duration and flexibility of U.S. non-immigrant visas for Nigerians.
The federal government responded in a statement issued yesterday by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuha, Spokesman, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
AljazirahNigeria reports that the policy, which took effect immediately on Tuesday, July 8,2025 restricts most U.S. non-diplomatic, non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens to three months validity and single entry only. Previously, such visas especially in categories like B1/B2 (business/tourism), F (students), and J (exchange visitors) often had longer validity and allowed multiple entries.
According to the government the new rules impose a “disproportionate burden” on a wide range of travellers from Nigeria, including students, academics, business professionals, and families. These restrictions, according to the Federal Government, could potentially hamper educational pursuits, cultural exchanges, legitimate business engagements, and family reunifications.
“This decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations”.
“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 read.
Besides, the new policy may unintentionally erode decades of trust and cooperation between Nigerians and the U.S., especially in light of Nigeria’s strategic role as a regional partner in trade, diplomacy, and counterterrorism efforts in West Africa.
Nigerian government called for reconsideration of the decision “in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities”.
However, the government said that “We understand and respect the right of the United States to determine its immigration policies”, adding that “We believe that this decision, particularly its scope and immediacy, warrants a second look through the lens of partnership and shared interests”.
Following the new visa restrictions the U.S. government through its Embassy in Nigeria stated on its website that visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will remain valid under the terms they were granted. It also noted that visa reciprocity policies are subject to continuous review and change, depending on various bilateral and global considerations.
On the other hand, the Nigerian government revealed that diplomatic engagements are ongoing and reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the matter through dialogue as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it would continue to pursue a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest, consistent with Nigeria’s broader foreign policy goals.
