Nigeria’s Federal Government has voiced strong objections to tightened visa policies imposed by the United States and the United Arab Emirates, labeling the measures as unfair and urging reconsideration to preserve bilateral cooperation. The restrictions, which also include changes to the United Kingdom’s visa processes for Nigerian applicants, have sparked concerns about their impact on cultural, educational, and economic exchanges.
The U.S. Department of State announced on Tuesday that, effective July 8, 2025, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas for Nigerians, including B1/B2 (business/tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor) categories, will be valid for only three months with single-entry access. This shift, part of the U.S. global visa reciprocity framework, aims to enhance security and align with international standards, according to the U.S. Embassy in Abuja. The embassy clarified that existing visas remain valid until expiration, but the new rules apply to all visas issued on or after July 8.
Concurrently, the UAE has introduced stringent entry requirements for Nigerian travelers. Dubai’s immigration authorities have banned transit visa applications and imposed age-based restrictions: Nigerians aged 18 to 45 are ineligible for tourist visas unless accompanied, while those over 45 must provide a bank statement showing a minimum monthly balance of $10,000 for six months. Additionally, the British High Commission in Abuja announced updates to the UK’s visa application process for Nigerian students and workers, further complicating travel prospects.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, expressed concern over the U.S. policy, highlighting its potential to disrupt longstanding ties. “This decision seems at odds with the principles of reciprocity and mutual respect that underpin our relations,” Ebienfa stated, noting the policy’s impact on students, professionals, and families. The ministry is engaging in diplomatic discussions to seek a fair resolution, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to cooperative solutions.
On Wednesday, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo met with U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr. to address the visa changes. Joined by Permanent Secretary Dr. Magdalene Ajani and Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service Kemi Nanna Nandap, Tunji-Ojo discussed strengthening bilateral ties through a balanced visa framework. The talks focused on Nigeria’s efforts to meet U.S. benchmarks, including issuing secure travel documents, managing visa overstays, and sharing security-related data. The U.S. commended Nigeria’s new e-visa system as a step toward streamlining applications while maintaining integrity.
Diplomatic and analytical perspectives vary on the issue. Retired diplomat Rasheed Akinkuolie described the U.S. restrictions as temporary and suggested Nigeria reciprocate with similar measures, adjusting them if the U.S. revises its stance. He noted that diplomatic and government travel remains unaffected, signaling stable state-to-state relations. Conversely, foreign affairs analyst Charles Onunaiju linked the restrictions to broader U.S. policy shifts under President Trump’s administration, advocating for Nigeria to diversify global partnerships rather than confront the U.S. directly.
The tightened visa rules come amid Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its global standing, including initiatives like the Mission 300 Compact to electrify 300 million Africans. As diplomatic engagements continue, Nigeria seeks to balance its response to these restrictions while maintaining robust international relationships critical to its economic and social development.
