The Nigerian Government and the United States Embassy have pledged to safeguard Nigerians from pitfalls related to new U.S. visa regulations and ensure greater awareness and compliance during the application process
The move aims to improve the flow of accurate information to Nigerian travellers and strengthen the longstanding bilateral relationship between both countries.
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known during a joint press conference with the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, in Abuja.
Idris noted that Nigerians visit the U.S. for several reasons including education, tourism, business, and medical care, adding that proper sensitisation has become necessary in light of recent visa policy updates.
“Nigeria is globally recognised as a country whose citizens are active travellers, engaging with the world across business, education, tourism, and other vital sectors
“The United States remains one of the most frequented destinations for Nigerians, reflecting the deep and long-standing ties between our two nations.” The Minister explained.
He acknowledged that changes recently announced by the U.S. Mission regarding consular procedures were intended to enhance service delivery and ensure a more responsive visa process.
“The U.S. Embassy’s efforts to provide Nigerians with direct briefings and accurate, up-to-date information is commendable,” Idris added, stressing the importance of open communication between both countries.
“Because of our deep ties with the United States, it’s important we continue to engage, inform, and update our citizens on visa and consular matters.”
For his part, Ambassador Mills said compliance with U.S. visa laws by Nigerian citizens is essential to preserving trust and deepening bilateral relations.
“Compliance with U.S. visa laws is not just an obligation but the cornerstone of mutual trust and respect between the two countries
“As the Minister just indicated, he and I had useful discussions about U.S. visa laws and how to message to the Nigerian people the importance of compliance.” Mills said.
He stressed that misuse of visas or providing inaccurate information during the application process undermines trust between both countries and could lead to serious consequences, including visa revocation or permanent bans.
“We, of course, welcome Nigerian visitors to the United States just as Nigeria welcomes Americans to this country,” he said. “We encourage all applicants to provide truthful information and abide by the terms of their visas, as I know a great majority of Nigerians do. By doing that, we are going to strengthen the bonds between our countries.”
Mills explained that the new visa measures were part of a broader global review initiated by the U.S. administration to address security risks and ensure all applicants are properly vetted.
“We want to make sure those coming to the U.S. are doing so for the right reasons and will return when they are supposed to. This helps protect the integrity of the immigration system,” he said.
He applauded the efforts of the Nigerian Government, particularly the Ministry of Information, the National Orientation Agency, the Nigerian Immigration Service, and the Presidency for supporting awareness campaigns on visa compliance.
Ambassador Mills urged Nigerians to rely on official consular portals for credible information, and assured of prompt responses to any inquiries.
Both parties reiterated the importance of transparency, public awareness, and mutual respect in strengthening diplomatic ties and ensuring smooth cross-border movements between citizens of both nations.
PIAK