The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally responded to the recent visa policy changes announced by the United States Government, expressing concern over what it describes as an unfriendly and imbalanced decision.
According to a public statement released by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, the United States has revised its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens.
Under the new policy, the validity of most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas—specifically the B1/B2 (business and tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor) categories—has been reduced to three months with single-entry access.
This change applies to all visas issued from July 8, 2025, onward, while those issued before that date will retain their original terms and validity.
This policy shift has raised serious concerns among many Nigerians, particularly those who travel frequently to the U.S. for business, education, tourism, family visits, and cultural exchange.
The Federal Government views the development as potentially disruptive to the longstanding and cordial bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the United States.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, expressing the Federal Government’s strong reservations.
The statement emphasized that Nigeria views this development with “keen interest and concern,” particularly in light of the long-standing friendly and cooperative ties between both nations.
The Nigerian government expressed disappointment that such a policy shift does not reflect the principles of reciprocity, fairness, and mutual respect which ought to govern bilateral relationships—especially between countries with deep-rooted historical and diplomatic connections.
The government stressed that the decision appears misaligned with the spirit of partnership that both countries have cultivated over the years.
Furthermore, the government pointed out that the new visa policy places an unfair burden on Nigerians from various walks of life.
This includes students who seek academic advancement abroad, professionals pursuing international business opportunities, families reuniting with loved ones, and individuals involved in cultural and educational programs. These categories of citizens, it said, now face undue difficulty and uncertainty in accessing the United States.
While acknowledging that every sovereign nation has the right to shape its own immigration policies, Nigeria called on the U.S. government to reconsider this decision.
It urged Washington to act in the spirit of global cooperation and shared responsibility, appealing for a more balanced approach that respects the mutual interests of both nations.
The Ministry assured the public that diplomatic efforts are already underway to engage with American authorities on the matter.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue, emphasizing its dedication to achieving a fair and mutually beneficial resolution that supports the free flow of legitimate travel and strengthens bilateral ties.
