Nigerians in the United States express their views to BIODUN BUSARI regarding the three-month single-entry non-immigrant visa, which has been criticized for being imposed on Nigerian applicants by former American President Donald Trump.
Nigerians in the United States have stated that the administration of President Donald Trump is entitled to pursue any foreign policy that serves the best interests of the American population.
They observed this in their responses to the new non-immigrant restriction policy, which introduced single-entry visas valid for three months for Nigerians wishing to visit the United States.
On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of State, via its embassy in Abuja, revealed changes to its non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerian citizens.
The U.S. government said, "We want to emphasize that, as is typical worldwide, visa reciprocity is an ongoing process and can be reviewed and modified at any time, such as adjusting the number of allowed entries or the length of validity."
On Thursday, the Federal Government criticized the US government for asserting that Nigeria did not reciprocate its five-year, multiple-entry visa arrangement.
In a statement from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the Presidency referred to the claim as "misinformation and false news."
The statement said, 'We would like to emphasize that the US government's assertion of reciprocity as the basis for its current visa policy toward Nigeria does not correctly represent the real circumstances.'
Some individuals from Nigeria in the United States shared their thoughtsPUNCH Diaspora Tales regarding the visa restriction policy, which came into force immediately, but does not apply to those issued prior to July 8, 2025.
An oncology researcher based in North Carolina, Dr. Tina Ekhaiyeme, stated that the US action would prompt the Nigerian government to revise its policies concerning Americans and other foreign nationals.
She observed that nations with lenient or welcoming visa policies were focused on business, thus drawing in foreign visitors, a strategy the Nigerian government should adopt to boost the country's growth via tourism.
I believe it's a mutual policy, more like an exchange. The US provided multiple-entry visas to Nigerians, but Nigeria didn't reciprocate. The US government even extended the duration from two to five years.
"But, what did Americans receive in exchange? They can't be spending huge amounts of money to travel to Nigeria with single-entry visas while Nigerians enter America with multiple-entry visas," stated Ekhaiyeme.
She highlighted that the Nigerian government needs to introduce visa regulations that would attract foreign visitors to invest in Nigeria.
"Jamaica allows Americans to enter without a visa. That's something the Nigerian government should consider. Let me also mention that they should be pleased they weren't prohibited," the doctor said.
In his submission, a software engineer from Texas, Kehinde Owolabi, referred to the policy as a "diplomatic slap" directed at the Nigerian government.
He pointed out that it was uncertain whether the action should be classified as a retaliatory measure, as US President Donald Trump had implemented comparable policies during his first term.
Owolabi stated, "This change in policy seems like a diplomatic rebuke. It is anticipated since there was an analogous regulation during President Trump's initial term, which impacted numerous Nigerians."
He mentioned that although it was not clear what happened between the two nations, "the policy conveys a powerful, unwelcoming message to Nigerians who make significant contributions to American society."
"Although the US refers to it as 'reciprocity,' we have not observed any public proof that Nigeria limits US citizens in a similar manner. If Nigeria imposes restrictions on Americans, it would be an error, as Nigerians would benefit more from the US," he added.
However, the Texas resident advised Nigerians not to worry about the policy, encouraging those wishing to travel to be proactive, while the Federal Government should offer diplomatic solutions to resolve the matter.
He stated, "My recommendation is: remain calm, but think wisely. The timeframe has become narrower, so you need to schedule your trip more precisely. If you're seeking a visa at this moment, choose your travel dates strategically and make sure you have a clear, well-documented reason for your visit."
Additionally, monitor any changes in policy. It's possible that diplomatic discussions might bring back earlier conditions. I believe the Tinubu administration should intervene and resolve the issue, as this will negatively affect Nigerians.
Commenting on the issue, another Nigerian resident in North Dakota, who requested to remain anonymous, mentioned that the government's choice could have been affected by the significant number of non-immigrant Nigerians holding invalid travel documents, which had become a challenge for the American authorities.
The source stated, "The U.S. government is attempting to reduce the significant number of non-immigrant visa holders from Nigeria who have chosen not to leave after their planned visits."
Many Nigerians have remained beyond their permitted stay, and the government is seeking methods to curb this by shortening their visa durations and limiting their use.
As stated by the Nigerian from North Dakota, it's possible that Trump's administration aimed to utilize the policy as a negotiation tool with the Federal Government regarding a specific agreement.
Conversely, the government could have an interest in what Nigeria possesses, which would make it challenging for them to travel to the United States, thus bringing the Nigerian government to the negotiation table.
"The US government is aware that Nigerians are affluent, which makes it harder for them to enter the US, resulting in more funds for the US government," the source emphasized.
The source warned Nigerians intending to move to the United States using unlawful travel papers, emphasizing that it is also a challenging process for immigrants to attain U.S. citizenship.
For Nigerians intending to travel to the United States, I recommend that they carry proper documentation and depart as required, ensuring that their ability to return is not at risk.
Furthermore, remaining in the US as a citizen or Green Card holder is not as straightforward as many believe. It becomes even more challenging for those who are undocumented, as they may not be hired by businesses registered with the government.
"You aren't able to drive, particularly in areas without public transportation, and you don't have access to healthcare," the source stated.
Pointing out the different risks of remaining in the United States without proper documentation as an immigrant, the source stated, “Apartment managers will require full details regarding your rental history and employment background.”
Details like your Social Security Number must be present in their records. Even if you are able to pay for a 12-month lease upfront, they won't accept it from you. They prefer you to pay on a monthly basis through your bank.
There needs to be a paper trail, since cash is not accepted. The system is designed in a way that makes it impossible to remain hidden. Therefore, if you are not legally present in the US, you will face difficulties.
"Let me point out that no legal resident would wish to end up in jail due to an illegal individual, as it is a crime to shelter someone who is undocumented. Education offers the simplest path to the United States for families if either the husband or wife possesses the necessary academic credentials and financial means," the source mentioned.
A Nigerian resident in Maryland, who opted to remain anonymous, suggested that the U.S. government might have introduced the policy as part of efforts to support Trump's immigration and mass deportation agenda.
Each country has the right to express its foreign policy goals in line with its national interests," the source stated, further noting, "President Trump clearly indicated that immigration and large-scale deportation were key elements of his campaign pledges.
The Nigerian stated that the visa limitation for Nigerians to three months with a single entry appeared to be an extension of his foreign policy goal.
The source urged both governments to sit down at the negotiation table to address any diplomatic disagreements, and mentioned that Nigeria maintains a friendly relationship with the United States.
Nigeria has maintained a very friendly relationship with the United States for many years, and we have much in common. I believe this is a diplomatic issue that needs to be readdressed for the benefit of both sides.
"It could be that there are hidden factors we aren't aware of right now, but the updated visa regulation is very strict for all concerned," the source mentioned.
The Maryland-based individual stated, “How do F1 students enter on a three-month single-entry visa, or businesspeople engaged in multiple activities? I truly hope there is a clear path to resolution that is worked out by Nigeria's foreign affairs department and the United States.”
In their guidance for Nigerians, the source stated, “Nigerians who are planning to travel should stay informed about the developments in the news and how authorities are addressing the concerns.”
I would advise them to adjust their plans as needed and grasp the policy stance before starting any new travel arrangements. Hopefully, within a few weeks, we might witness a different result from the negotiations that could be more favorable for Nigerians.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Posting Komentar