By HAN News Desk
ABUJA – The United States will stop issuing visas to Nigerian nationals beginning on New Year’s Day, according to U.S. officials, following the implementation of a presidential proclamation aimed at tightening border and national security controls.
Under Presidential Proclamation 10998, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and its affiliated consulate in Lagos will cease issuing new visas to Nigerian citizens effective Jan. 1, 2026. The proclamation limits the entry of certain foreign nationals as part of broader measures the U.S. government says are necessary to protect national security.
U.S. authorities said the restrictions will not apply retroactively. Visas issued before the effective date will remain valid, and Nigerian nationals who already hold valid U.S. visas as of Jan. 1, 2026, will not be affected by the changes.
Nigeria is among 18 countries subjected to the partial visa restrictions, a list that disproportionately affects African nations. The U.S. government has not publicly detailed the specific criteria used to select the countries or the duration of the measures.
The development comes amid diplomatic changes between the two countries. U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills has already been recalled, though Washington has not officially linked the move to the visa decision. The timing also coincides with Nigeria’s ongoing process of appointing ambassadors to be posted abroad, adding to uncertainty in diplomatic circles.
The announcement has sparked concern among Nigerians, particularly students studying in the United States. Many have chosen not to travel home for Christmas and New Year celebrations, citing fears that leaving the U.S. could jeopardize their ability to return because of visa uncertainties.
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and has long maintained close diplomatic, economic and educational ties with the United States. Thousands of Nigerian students are enrolled in U.S. universities, and the U.S. remains one of the top destinations for Nigerian travelers, professionals and immigrants.
The Nigerian government has not yet issued an official response to the visa suspension.
