The United States has defended a recent wave of visa revocations affecting Nigerian citizens, insisting the move is tied to national security concerns despite growing criticism over its lack of transparency.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, the cancellations—which have impacted students, business professionals, and travelers—fall under Section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
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The law empowers consular officers and the Secretary of State to revoke visas “at any time” if there is evidence of possible ineligibility.
A spokesperson told BBC News Pidgin that the revocations were occurring “on a scale never seen before,” framing the measure as part of Washington’s broader efforts to secure U.S. borders.
Officials said visa withdrawals may target individuals linked to overstays, violations of U.S. law, criminal activity, or suspected ties to terrorism.
Reports first surfaced after some Nigerian travelers discovered at airports that their visas had been revoked without prior warning.
Former NNPC spokesperson Femi Soneye said he had been contacted by multiple affected Nigerians, who complained that the cancellations came abruptly and derailed academic, business, and personal plans.
Although Nigeria is not on Washington’s formal list of banned or restricted countries, many Nigerians have expressed concern over the opaque process.
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Most recipients were told only that “new information had come up” as justification for the revocation.
Defending the decision, the Embassy said the policy was about safeguarding Americans, stating: “Prohibiting entry to the United States by those who may pose a threat to U.S. national security or public safety is key to protecting U.S. citizens at home.”
U.S. officials signaled no sign of reversing course, emphasizing that security imperatives will continue to outweigh diplomatic sensitivities.
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