The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has clarified that recent changes to U.S. visa policy for Nigerians are aimed at addressing “security vulnerabilities” and not targeted at the country.
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has clarified that recent changes to U.S. visa policy for Nigerians are aimed at addressing “security vulnerabilities” and not targeted at the country. Speaking in Abuja during a visit to Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris, Mills said the policy—reducing most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas to single-entry, three-month validity—is part of a reciprocal arrangement and follows the U.S. administration’s push for more rigorous overseas vetting.
He urged Nigerians to comply with visa terms, warning that overstays could lead to deportation and lifetime travel bans. Mills noted that U.S. authorities continue monitoring visa holders’ activities and could revoke visas for law violations. For students, he stressed the need to remain in their programmes.
Idris welcomed the explanation, calling for stronger engagement between both nations to enhance understanding of such policies. He advised Nigerians to respect foreign laws, stressing that compliance fosters Nigeria’s global image and smoother bilateral cooperation.