THE Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has advised Nigerians to strictly use their United States of America (U.S) visas for the purposes stated in their applications.
The warning was issued in response to concerns from the U.S. government regarding visa misuse by some Nigerian citizens.
In a statement issued on Saturday, August 2, in Abuja, NIS spokesperson Akinsola Akinlabi stated that holders of U.S. visas must comply with all terms and conditions attached to their visas.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians. All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications.
“U.S. authorities conduct security screening beyond the initial point of entry into the country. Any breach of immigration or other laws can lead to visa revocation or deportation,” Akinlabi noted in the statement.
He stated that a breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel.
He stated further that the United States remains committed to a secure and transparent visa process and expects all visa holders to fully adhere to its immigration regulations.
He also urged Nigerian students currently studying in the U.S. to stay enrolled in active academic programmes and avoid unauthorised withdrawals or prolonged absences, warning that such behaviour could lead to visa cancellation and affect future chances of travelling to the U.S.
Akinlabi also stated that U.S. consular officers have the discretion to deny tourist visas to applicants suspected of intending to give birth in the U.S. to secure American citizenship for their children.
He added that the NIS is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to prevent Nigeria from being included in any expanded visa restrictions.
He also appealed to all Nigerian citizens to comply with U.S. visa rules, emphasising that doing so is vital to protecting access to legitimate travel opportunities.
In July, The ICIR reported that the United States Department of State announced that non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be limited to single entry and will be valid for only three months.
Fatimah Quadri is a Journalist and a Fact-checker at The ICIR. She has written news articles, fact-checks, explainers, and media literacy in an effort to combat information disorder.
She can be reached at sunmibola_q on X or fquadri@icirnigeria.org