- The Federal Government of Nigeria criticized the U.S. decision to change its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens.
- The Nigerian government claims this change imposes an unfair burden on Nigerian travelers.
- The statement was issued by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on July 9, 2025.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has maintained that the recent decision by the United States Government to revise its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens, “places disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers”.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, on 9th July, 2025.
The reaction comes several hours after the U.S. Department of State revised its visa policy for Nigerian nationals, introducing more restrictive terms for most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas.
GistLover reports that, effective immediately, most Nigerian citizens seeking to enter the The United States has introduced a significant policy change regarding its visa reciprocity arrangement with Nigeria. Effective immediately, Nigerian applicants will now be issued single-entry visas valid for only three months.
The U.S. government announced this adjustment on Monday, stating that the revision aligns with its broader goals to standardize global visa procedures in line with national immigration and security protocols.
FG Reacts
Responding to the development, the spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern, especially in light of the historically strong diplomatic and people-to-people relations between the two countries.
“The attention of the Federal Government of Nigeria has been drawn to the recent decision by the United States Government to revise its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens, limiting the validity of non-immigrant visas, including B1/B2, F, and J categories to three months with single entry,” the ministry said.
The government described the move as inconsistent with principles of fairness, reciprocity, and mutual respect that typically underpin relations between friendly nations.
“This decision places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, including students, professionals, families, and individuals participating in cultural and educational exchanges,” the ministry added.
- While acknowledging the United States’ sovereign right to set its immigration rules, Nigeria urged Washington to revisit the decision in the spirit of mutual cooperation and global partnership.
The ministry also confirmed that diplomatic discussions are ongoing and that it remains committed to a resolution that reflects equity and shared interests.
What to Know
Despite the revised visa rules, the U.S. Department of State emphasized that ties between both nations remain solid. “The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to expanding our partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity,” a statement read.
Nigerian travelers were also reminded to adhere strictly to visa rules and ensure that all submitted documents are genuine and accurate, as any violations could impact future visa eligibility.
The U.S. reaffirmed its dedication to fostering strong people-to-people connections through academic, business, and cultural exchange programs. Officials pledged to continue working closely with Nigerian counterparts to address existing obstacles to full visa reciprocity.
Up-to-date information on visa policies and requirements is available on the U.S. government’s official visa website: travel.state.gov.
This development reflects the U.S. government’s ongoing effort to tighten immigration processes while preserving diplomatic goodwill with key international partners, including Nigeria.
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