United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has clarified the rationale behind the recent visa restrictions imposed on Nigerians, saying the measures are part of broader security protocols rather than targeted actions against Nigerian citizens.
Speaking during a press briefing on Sunday in Abuja during the visit of a U.S. Congressional Delegation (CODEL), Mills said the restrictions are intended to strengthen security procedures and ensure thorough vetting for visa applicants.
“The presidential proclamation, effective January 1, 2026, affecting certain visa categories, is aimed at ensuring proper vetting and credible information in the visa process, not on penalising Nigerians,” Mills said.
He stated that the proclamation specifies which visa categories may be impacted and highlights exemptions for select groups, including holders of official and diplomatic passports, as well as individuals travelling for religious purposes.
The ambassador advised visa applicants and the public to consult the U.S. Embassy’s official website for comprehensive details on the proclamation, the affected visa categories, and available exemptions.
He also encouraged those with specific questions to use the embassy’s designated communication channels for guidance.
Also addressing the press, U.S. Congressman and leader of the delegation, Bill Huizenga, said that visa reviews and restrictions are standard procedures designed to encourage compliance and cooperation, rather than punitive measures targeting citizens.
Huizenga added that such measures primarily focus on government systems and processes and are routinely applied in different countries worldwide.
