US visa review targets security, not Nigerians — Ambassador

 

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has assured that the recently announced visa restrictions by the U.S. government are not targeted at Nigerians but are part of efforts to strengthen security procedures.

Mills spoke on Sunday in Abuja at a news conference during the visit of a United States Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Nigeria.

He explained that the presidential proclamation, scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026, affects specific visa categories and is aimed at improving border security and protecting American communities.

According to the ambassador, the review focuses on proper vetting and the availability of credible information in the visa application process, stressing that it is not intended to punish Nigerian citizens.

“The focus of the visa review is on ensuring effective screening and reliable information, not on penalising Nigerians,” Mills said.

He noted that the proclamation clearly outlines the visa categories affected and provides exemptions for certain groups, including holders of official and diplomatic passports, as well as individuals travelling for religious purposes.

Mills advised visa applicants and the general public to consult the official website of the U.S. Embassy for detailed information on the affected categories and available exemptions, adding that designated embassy communication channels should be used for specific enquiries.

Also speaking, the leader of the U.S. Congressional Delegation, Rep. Bill Huizenga, said visa reviews and restrictions are routine measures used globally to promote compliance and cooperation.

Huizenga said such actions are usually directed at improving government systems and processes rather than targeting citizens, adding that similar reviews are carried out in many countries.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the U.S. government has reaffirmed its commitment to strong people-to-people relations with Nigeria, describing the visa review as part of broader engagement to enhance bilateral cooperation while addressing shared security concerns.

President Donald Trump had, on December 16, announced expanded entry restrictions on foreign nationals from 24 countries, citing persistent deficiencies in screening, vetting and information-sharing that pose risks to U.S. national security and public safety.