The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced high-level diplomatic engagements with the United States following the recent changes to the U.S. non-immigrant visa policy affecting Nigerian citizens.
In a meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria’s delegation, led by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, met with the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Richard Mills, and members of his team to discuss the implications of the new visa policy and chart a path toward a mutually beneficial resolution.
The U.S. Department of State recently announced updates to its reciprocal visa policy. Effective July 8, 2025, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian nationals will now be limited to single-entry with a validity period of just three months. The new policy affects multiple countries, including Nigeria.
Visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will remain valid under the terms of their original issuance.
According to Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) are already working closely with the U.S. Mission to address the key concerns that informed the policy change.
The U.S. cited three main criteria behind its decision:
- Secure Travel Documents: Countries must issue travel documents with verified traveler identities to enhance border security.
- Visa Overstay Management: Governments are expected to put systems in place to prevent prolonged or unauthorized stays by their nationals abroad.
- Information Sharing: Effective exchange of security and criminal data between nations to protect public safety.
Despite the revision, the U.S. emphasized the importance of its relationship with Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties based on mutual respect, shared security interests, and economic cooperation.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu also acknowledged the efforts of Nigeria’s security and immigration agencies, noting their continued drive to align with global standards and improve international travel compliance.
“Visa reciprocity is a continuous and evolving process. Nigeria remains committed to meeting international benchmarks to facilitate fair and efficient travel arrangements for its citizens,” she said.
Meanwhile, Nigerian travelers have been urged to comply fully with the conditions of their U.S. visas and to ensure their travel documents are authentic, accurate, and up to date.
The Federal Government says it is intensifying efforts to secure a revision of the new policy and restore broader visa access for Nigerian citizens.