Nigeria Engages U.S. Ambassador Over New 3-Month Visa Policy as Interior Minister Reveals Key Agreements
Written by Okafor Joseph Afam | SpringnewsNG Media Limited | Tel: +234 703 949 0464 | Email: springnewsng@gmail.com | July 10, 2025
Nigerian Government Meets U.S. Ambassador Over Stricter Visa Rules, Seeks Improved Bilateral Framework
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has provided details of a high-level meeting held with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, aimed at addressing growing concerns over the United States’ new visa restrictions for Nigerians.
The meeting follows the recent change in U.S. visa policy, which limits most non-immigrant visas—such as tourist (B1/B2) and business visas—to single-entry and three-month validity, a significant downgrade from the previous multi-entry, longer-term arrangements.
Tunji-Ojo, who shared the outcome of the meeting via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, said the discussion was constructive and focused on finding a mutually beneficial solution to current visa tensions.
Key Officials Present and Main Discussion Points
The meeting was also attended by:
- Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior
- Kemi Nanna Nandap, Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)
The core topics included:
- Visa reciprocity between both countries
- The rationale behind the new U.S. visa guidelines
- Enhancing bilateral cooperation on immigration and travel compliance
Strengthened Bilateral Collaboration and Responsible Travel
Tunji-Ojo said both governments are committed to strengthening ties through a “well-structured visa framework” and more responsible international travel practices.
“Ambassador Mills provided valuable insight into the revised U.S. visa protocol, stressing the importance of protecting the integrity of the visa process,” the minister said.
In turn, the U.S. delegation acknowledged the Nigeria Immigration Service’s new e-visa policy, describing it as an innovative step designed to simplify the application process for foreigners visiting Nigeria.
Three Key Areas of Nigerian Government Commitment
The Nigerian government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has pledged compliance with global immigration standards and promised to strengthen internal systems in the following areas:
- Secure Travel Documents: Enhancing the issuance of tamper-proof passports with verified biometric data.
- Visa Overstay Management: Enforcing stricter measures to prevent Nigerians from overstaying their U.S. visas.
- Security and Data Sharing: Improving cooperation with the U.S. on criminal records and other public safety data to combat illegal immigration and enhance national security.
“We are determined to ensure responsible travel, eliminate visa abuse, and promote international trust in our immigration system,” Tunji-Ojo said.
Background: U.S. Visa Rule Change Sparks Debate
The new U.S. visa rules have sparked widespread reaction across Nigeria, especially among frequent travelers, students, and business professionals. Critics argue the three-month single-entry limit could hurt economic and diplomatic relations, while others call for reciprocal actions by the Nigerian government.
The U.S. embassy defended the move, stating it is in line with visa reciprocity practices and global security standards
What’s Next?
While no immediate changes were announced, the meeting marks a significant step toward rebuilding confidence and adjusting the framework for bilateral visa agreements between Nigeria and the United States.
Diplomatic sources suggest that further technical discussions and follow-up meetings are expected in the coming weeks as both countries work toward a more balanced and equitable visa regime.
Written by Okafor Joseph Afam
Publisher, SpringnewsNG Media Limited
Tel: +234 703 949 0464
Email: springnewsng@gmail.com
