The United States Mission in Nigeria has clarified that the recent reduction in the validity of nonimmigrant visas issued to Nigerians and nationals of several other countries is not connected to geopolitical alliances, deportation policies, or the adoption of electronic visa systems.
In a statement issued on Friday, the US Mission described circulating claims linking the decision to Nigeria’s relationship with BRICS or its handling of third-country deportees as “misconceptions.”
“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 US government said the change is part of a broader, ongoing global review of visa issuance standards.
“The reduction in validity is part of an ongoing global review of the use of US visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks to safeguard US immigration systems,” it said.
While reaffirming the strength of bilateral relations between the US and Nigeria, the Mission noted that it remains committed to helping Nigeria meet the criteria necessary to qualify for longer-term visa issuance.
“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, thereby ensuring safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations,” the Mission added.
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