FG to Mirror U.S. Visa Rules as New Restrictions Target Nigerians

The Federal Government has announced plans to reciprocate the United States’ new visa restrictions, following Washington’s directive that Nigerians must now disclose their social media history for the past five years when applying for visas.

U.S. Tightens Immigration Vetting

According to the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, applicants who fail to provide accurate information on their social media, email addresses, and phone numbers risk visa denial and possible future ineligibility.

The new policy is part of broader immigration reforms introduced under former U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at strengthening national security.

FG’s Reciprocity Response

Reacting to the move, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Nigeria will adopt the same measures for American applicants.

Spokesman Kimiebi Ebienfa emphasized the principle of reciprocity in visa relations:

“We are aware of the development. Some people from the U.S. might want to apply for a visa, and we will adopt the same measures. What you are mandating our nationals to do, we will also mandate your citizens applying for our visa to do.”

He also disclosed that an inter-agency meeting involving the Ministry of Interior and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) would be convened to finalize Nigeria’s response.

Wider U.S. Visa Crackdown

The social media disclosure requirement adds to a series of restrictions that have already affected thousands of Nigerian applicants. The U.S. State Department confirmed that over 6,000 student visas were revoked in the past seven months, citing overstays and alleged violations.

In addition, stricter “Good Moral Character” rules now demand applicants show tax compliance, clean records, and community contributions before gaining naturalization approval.

 What This Means for Nigerians and Americans

Analysts believe the Federal Government’s retaliatory stance signals a shift towards tougher diplomatic negotiations with Washington. While the move may project balance in international relations, it could disrupt academic exchange, business partnerships, and tourism between both countries.

For Nigerians, the new requirement means greater scrutiny of online activities, while U.S. citizens may soon face similar hurdles when applying for Nigerian visas.

Do you think Nigeria’s decision to mirror U.S. visa rules will protect national interest or make travel even harder for Nigerians? Share your thoughts below