ABUJA, 9 July 2025 — After the United States announced that non-diplomatic visas granted to Nigerian citizens (B1/B2, F, and J categories) would only permit one trip per three months, Nigeria released a harsh statement.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said in a press release that the policy seems out of step with the reciprocity, equity, and respect that typically govern friendly relations, expressing “concern and keen interest.”
Nigeria emphasized how this shift affects families, professionals, students, and cross-cultural interactions, placing an unfair burden on travelers. Additionally, the statement stressed that even though diplomatic engagement is already in progress, the US must reevaluate the policy in accordance with “partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities.”
This response is part of a larger trend in which the US is tightening visa regulations because of its reciprocity rule, worries about travel security, and visa overstays. New visas now follow the revised policy, but those issued prior to July 8, 2025, still have their original validity, according to the US Embassy in Abuja.
Continued diplomatic discussions to review the visa decision are confirmed by the Foreign Ministry.
Nigeria is calling on the US to reinstate fair visa requirements that promote trade, education, and cultural exchanges.
It is recommended that travelers keep up with any changes to both governments’ policies.
