The United States Mission in Nigeria has clarified that its recent decision to reduce visa validity for most Nigerian nonimmigrant applicants is based on a broader global review, not due to political factors or diplomatic tensions.
In response to public speculation, the U.S. Mission issued a statement via its official Facebook page on Friday, stressing that the new policy has no connection to Nigeria’s position on third-country deportations, BRICS membership, or new electronic visa policies.
“This reduction is not the result of any nation’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS,” the statement read.
Instead, the mission pointed out that the change is part of “an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.”
While addressing the concern, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria as a valued international partner and stated that it remains open to collaboration with Nigerian authorities in achieving required standards.
“We value our longstanding partnership with Nigeria and remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet those criteria and benchmarks,” it said.
The mission also reiterated its intent to support travel between both nations, highlighting the importance of secure and legal movement of people.
According to the statement, the overall goal is to ensure “safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations.”
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