Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Federal Government has formally urged the United States to reconsider its recently revised visa reciprocity policy, which now restricts non-immigrant visas for Nigerian citizens to a single-entry and a maximum validity of three months.
The call for reconsideration was contained in a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday. The ministry highlighted that the Nigerian government’s attention has been drawn to the U.S. decision, which specifically impacts non-immigrant visa categories such as B1/B2 (business/tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor) visas.
“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. Nigeria expressed its dismay, noting that the decision appears to be “misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.”
The Nigerian government emphasized the significant burden this new restriction places on various segments of its population. “Nigeria notes this restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, students seeking academic opportunities, professionals engaging in legitimate business, families visiting loved ones, and individuals contributing to cultural and educational exchanges,” the statement elaborated.
While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies, Nigeria “respectfully urges the U.S. to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation and shared global responsibilities.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that diplomatic engagements are currently underway to address the issue. The ministry reiterated its commitment to “pursuing a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest.”
Meanwhile, a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria clarified that all U.S. non-immigrant visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their original status and validity. The U.S. government explained that visa reciprocity is a global standard subject to regular review and can be adjusted at any time, including changes to permitted entries and duration of validity.
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