The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed it is in diplomatic talks with the United States to address the recent visa restrictions affecting Nigerian citizens.
On January 14, the US announced a pause on immigrant visa issuance for 75 countries, including Nigeria, which took effect on January 21. The move has raised concerns among Nigerians seeking to live or work permanently in the US.
Speaking to Sunday PUNCH, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Kimiebi Ebienfa, explained that visa issuance is a sovereign right of the issuing country. He said Nigeria is engaging in dialogue with US authorities to resolve the matter and have the country removed from the list of affected nations.
Ebienfa added that Nigeria is not the only country impacted and urged citizens to remain calm while diplomatic efforts continue. “We are confident a mutually beneficial solution will be reached,” he said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that protecting the interests of Nigerians abroad remains a priority, and the government is working to strengthen bilateral relations with the US while addressing the concerns that prompted the visa pause.
