President Bola Tinubu...
Federal Government has expressed concern over the United States’ revised visa reciprocity policy, which limits Nigerian non-immigrant visas to single-entry, three-month validity.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, urged the US to reconsider its decision, citing the “longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties” between the two countries.
The government views the US decision as “misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.”
The restriction, according to the government, “places disproportionate burden on Nigerian travelers, students seeking academic opportunities, professionals engaging in legitimate business, families visiting loved ones, and individuals contributing to cultural and educational exchanges.”
The government respectfully urged the US to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the importance of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities.
“Nigeria respectfully urges the US to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities, while acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies,” the statement read.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured that diplomatic engagements are ongoing to pursue a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest.
“Diplomatic engagements are ongoing, and the ministry would remain committed to pursuing a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest,” the government said.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Nigeria has clarified that all US non-immigrant visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their original status and validity.
