US Envoy Says Nigerians Not Targeted by Visa Restrictions

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has clarified that recent U.S. visa restrictions affecting Nigerian applicants are not meant to single out Nigerians but are focused on strengthening security protocols, a statement that comes amid broader adjustments to U.S. entry requirements ahead of the new year.

The ambassador spoke at a news conference in Abuja during a visit by a U.S. Congressional Delegation, responding to concerns about the impact of the forthcoming visa measures on Nigerian travellers.

“We have to be clear that visa restrictions are not targeted at Nigerians,” Mills said, stressing that the intention behind the policy review was to enhance vetting procedures and ensure that information provided in visa applications is credible, rather than to penalise Nigerian citizens.

He explained that the presidential proclamation, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, specifies the categories of visas that may be affected but also outlines exemptions for holders of official and diplomatic passports and individuals travelling for religious work.

Mills urged visa applicants and members of the public to consult the U.S. Embassy’s official website for detailed information on the proclamation, the specific visa categories concerned and the exemptions provided, noting that clear communication and accurate information are critical amid changes to visa procedures.

He also encouraged those with enquiries to use designated embassy communication channels for guidance.

The U.S. envoy’s clarification came against the backdrop of reports that the restrictions were part of wider U.S. security and immigration policy adjustments, which have included reviews of background checks and vetting standards for foreign nationals seeking entry.

Officials from the U.S. Congressional Delegation, led by Representative Bill Huizenga, said such reviews were routinely used globally and were not intended as punitive actions against any particular nationality but as mechanisms to encourage cooperation and compliance with international security norms.

The clarification by the U.S. ambassador seeks to reassure Nigerians that the evolving visa policy is aimed at procedural integrity and bilateral security cooperation rather than discrimination, as discussions continue between diplomatic and government representatives.