The United States will partially suspend the issuance of certain visas to Nigerian nationals from January 1, 2026, following a new presidential proclamation on border and national security. It also applies to immigrant visas, with limited exceptions. Other exempted categories include lawful permanent residents of the United States and participants in certain major international sporting events. However, the US Mission noted that such applicants “may be ineligible for visa issuance or admission to the United States” under the new rules. Recent weeks have seen a series of restrictive measures by the United States that have heightened concerns among Nigerians seeking to travel, study or migrate to the country.

Source: Punch December 23, 2025 00:33 UTC