Diplomatic sources cited by TheCable reveal that Nigeria’s decision to reject U.S. proposals to host asylum seekers pending resolution of their immigration cases was a key factor behind Washington’s decision to sharply restrict visas for Nigerian citizens . These asylum arrangements—akin to long-stay relocation deals—can stretch up to seven years, and Nigeria declined to take part in the scheme .
Following Nigeria’s refusal, the U.S. Embassy announced a sudden change to visa policy affecting “most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas” issued to Nigerians. The new rules reduce visa validity to 90 days and limit holders to single-entry travel . Contrary to rumors, Nigeria has not suspended issuing long-term visas to U.S. citizens; those arrangements remain in place under existing reciprocity frameworks .
Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar publicly confirmed Nigeria’s firm stance, emphasizing the country’s inability to accept asylum seekers or deportees—many of whom may include convicted prisoners—citing the nation’s own internal challenges and large population .
U.S. diplomatic channels reportedly made additional demands, including access to Nigeria’s criminal database to track Nigerians residing in the U.S. with prior convictions, and digital visa-application privileges for American citizens—both of which Nigeria rejected over concerns about reciprocity and sovereignty .
Nigeria responded to the visa freeze by calling for a re-evaluation of the policy, arguing it conflicts with principles of mutual respect and fairness in bilateral relations. Nigerian authorities also dismissed claims that the visa changes were linked to its membership in BRICS or recent reforms in Nigeria’s e‑visa procedures .
