By Olatunbosun Obafemi
The United States Mission in Nigeria has rejected claims that its decision this week to slash the validity of most non immigrant visas for Nigerians – from five years to just three months – was a punitive response to Abuja’s diplomatic stances.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the embassy said the change “is part of an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks,” and has nothing to do with Nigeria’s position on third country deportees, electronic visa policies or its growing ties with groupings such as BRICS.
The clarification followed speculation that Washington was retaliating after Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar disclosed that the United States had been “mounting considerable pressure” on African states, including Nigeria, to accept Venezuelan nationals being deported directly from U.S. prisons – pressure Nigeria has resisted. “It will be difficult for a country like Nigeria to accept Venezuelan prisoners… we have enough problems of our own,” Tuggar told reporters in Abuja.
Under the revised regime, Nigerians seeking business, tourist, student or exchange visas will receive single entry documents valid for 90 days. Visas issued before 8 July retain their original five year, multiple entry status. The embassy stressed that it “values our longstanding partnership with Nigeria” and is working with local officials to help the country meet the benchmarks required for longer validity in future.
Nevertheless, the foreign ministry characterised the restriction as a “disproportionate burden” on legitimate travellers and urged Washington to reconsider in the spirit of mutual respect.
Diplomatic talks are continuing, but veteran analysts warn that if the matter festers it could complicate broader negotiations on energy, minerals and security cooperation now under way between the two countries. For now, travellers are advised to check the embassy’s website for updated guidance before making any plans or paying application fees in advance.
