Nigeria condemns new U.S. visa restrictions, urges reconsideration “in the spirit of mutual respect”

The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally denounced the United States' recent tightening of non‑immigrant visa rules for Nigerian citizens—now limited to single‑entry, three‑month permits—labeling the move “disproportionate” and urging reconsideration in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, according to a statement by the Foreign Affairs Ministry on July 9, 2025.

Announced by the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, the restrictions replace the prior five‑year, multiple‑entry visa regime with a far shorter single‑entry model . The Nigerian Foreign Ministry responded swiftly, emphasizing that such measures could strain bilateral relations and economic ties, given that current U.S. policy offers no reciprocal constraints on American travelers to Nigeria.

In a separate statement, Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar—also ECOWAS’ Council Chair—warned that the visa curbs serve as non‑tariff trade barriers that stand to erode ongoing efforts to promote regional and international commerce, diplomacy, and investment.

> “Visa restrictions hinder government officials, technocrats, business executives, and entrepreneurs from travelling to engage in the kind of high‑level economic diplomacy that drives sustainable development,” Tuggar stated at an ECOWAS summit in Abuja.

He added that the U.S. review process is not a blanket travel ban, but criticized its 60‑day timetable and warned that swift policy implementation could undermine ongoing economic partnerships and diplomatic channels with Africa.