Monday, December 22, 2025 - United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has clarified the rationale behind the recent visa restrictions imposed on Nigerians, emphasizing that the measures are part of broader security protocols rather than targeted actions against Nigerian citizens.
Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday in Abuja during the
visit of a U.S. Congressional Delegation, CODEL, Mills explained that the
restrictions are intended to strengthen security procedures and ensure thorough
vetting for visa applicants.
“The presidential proclamation, effective January 1, 2026,
affecting certain visa categories, is aimed at ensuring proper vetting and
credible information in the visa process, not on penalising Nigerians,” Mills
said.
He noted that the proclamation specifies which visa
categories may be impacted and highlights exemptions for select groups,
including holders of official and diplomatic passports, as well as individuals
travelling for religious purposes.
The ambassador advised visa applicants and the public to
consult the U.S. Embassy’s official website for comprehensive details on the
proclamation, the affected visa categories, and available exemptions.
He also encouraged those with specific questions to use the
embassy’s designated communication channels for guidance.
Also addressing the press, U.S. Congressman and leader of
the delegation, Bill Huizenga, stated that visa reviews and restrictions are
standard procedures designed to encourage compliance and cooperation, rather
than punitive measures targeting citizens.
Huizenga added that such measures primarily focus on
government systems and processes and are routinely applied in different
countries worldwide.
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