The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has said recent US visa restrictions are not aimed at penalising Nigerians but at strengthening security procedures.
Mills made the clarification on Sunday in Abuja during a news conference held as part of a visit by a US Congressional Delegation to Nigeria.
He explained that the presidential proclamation, set to take effect from January 1, 2026, affects specific visa categories and is part of broader efforts to secure US borders. “The focus of the visa review is on ensuring proper vetting and credible information in the visa process, not on penalising Nigerians,” Mills said.
The ambassador noted that exemptions apply to certain categories, including holders of official and diplomatic passports and individuals travelling for religious work. He advised applicants to consult the US Embassy’s website for details.
US Congressional Delegation leader, Rep. Bill Huizenga, added that such reviews are routine tools focused on systems, not citizens.