The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the United States government is yet to reverse its recently imposed visa restrictions on certain categories of Nigerian travelers, despite ongoing diplomatic engagements.
Speaking to The PUNCH on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa stated, “Engagements are ongoing, but the policy is yet to be reversed so far.”
The restrictions, which significantly reduce the validity of several non-immigrant visa categories to just three months with single-entry access, remain active. Affected categories include B1/B2 (business and tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor) visas.
Last month, the Nigerian government officially protested the revised U.S. visa reciprocity schedule, describing it as a disproportionate and inequitable measure that undermines the principles of mutual respect and fairness expected between friendly nations.
In its statement, the Federal Government expressed concern that the policy could harm legitimate travellers such as students, professionals, and families, and negatively impact long-standing cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries.
While acknowledging the United States’ sovereign right to set immigration policies, Nigeria has continued to urge the U.S. government to reconsider the restrictions in light of the historic bilateral ties shared by both nations.
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