Nigeria’s Federal Government has expressed deep concern over recent visa policies by the United States, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom, describing them as unfriendly, disproportionate, and harmful to Nigeria’s global image.
The US, through its Department of State, announced that effective July 8, 2025, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians; particularly the B1/B2, F, and J categories, will now only be valid for three months and for single entry. The visa policy shift, which the US says is part of its global visa reciprocity review, sparked swift reactions from Nigerian authorities.
In a statement, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, called the move misaligned with the principles of mutual respect and reciprocity that should guide bilateral relations between friendly nations. “The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect,” Ebienfa said, while confirming that consultations with stakeholders are ongoing.
At a meeting on Wednesday with US Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr., Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, led discussions aimed at resolving the issue. Both countries reaffirmed their diplomatic cooperation while also committing to stricter enforcement of visa policies, identity verification, and overstay management.
Meanwhile, the UAE imposed even more restrictive entry rules on Nigerian travelers. According to new directives from Dubai immigration, Nigerians aged 18 to 45 are ineligible for tourist visas unless accompanied. Those aged 45 and above must now present a six-month personal bank statement with a minimum monthly balance of $10,000 or its naira equivalent to qualify for a visa. Travel experts say the new rule will significantly affect tourism and business travel between both nations.
The United Kingdom also introduced a new eVisa policy, effective July 15, 2025. Most Nigerians applying for work or study visas will now receive digital eVisas instead of visa stickers (vignettes). Applicants must still submit biometrics at visa centers, but passports will no longer be held for stamping. The British High Commission emphasized this as a step toward a modern digital immigration system.
These back-to-back restrictions have drawn criticism from opposition parties. The Labour Party’s Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, accused the Tinubu-led administration of global diplomatic failure, citing poor governance and rising emigration as key reasons for Nigeria’s declining international standing. The New Nigeria Peoples Party echoed similar sentiments, calling the restrictions a “wake-up call” for the government.
PDP member and media personality Dele Momodu linked the US restrictions to Nigeria’s participation in BRICS, suggesting that the move may reflect deeper geopolitical concerns. In contrast, a former aide to ex-President Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, argued that the policy changes show discomfort over Nigeria’s shifting global alliances and growing international influence.
Foreign policy analysts like Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie and Charles Onunaiju took a more nuanced view. Akinkuolie called the US visa restriction “temporary and subject to review,” urging reciprocal action by Nigeria. Onunaiju advised that instead of direct confrontation, Nigeria should diversify and strengthen global diplomatic partnerships to cushion the long-term impact.
Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, downplayed fears of diplomatic breakdown. He maintained that Nigeria enjoys strong bilateral ties with the US and emphasized that the visa revision does not indicate a breakdown in relations but rather procedural updates that require response.
As the government pursues diplomatic resolutions, concerns continue to mount over how these new visa policies might affect travel, education, business, and international cooperation for Nigerian citizens.
