The Presidency has dismissed reports suggesting that the Federal Government of Nigeria has revoked or altered the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visas to United States citizens.
In a press statement released on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not introduced any visa policy targeting U.S. citizens, contrary to misinformation circulating on social media.
“The Nigerian government has not deviated from granting U.S. citizens a 5-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visa,” Onanuga said, stressing that Nigeria continues to honor bilateral agreements and principles of reciprocity in its diplomatic engagements.
According to the statement, President Tinubu had, upon assuming office, directed that all existing bilateral agreements with other countries be fully implemented, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to mutual respect and cooperation in international relations.
The clarification comes amid recent adjustments by the U.S. government to its visa policy for Nigerians, which it attributed to a lack of reciprocity from Nigeria. However, the Presidency has challenged that claim, insisting that Nigeria has remained consistent in its treatment of U.S. visa applicants.
Onanuga further explained that the newly introduced 90-day single-entry e-visa category — which has been mistaken as a retaliatory move — is separate from the standard visa process. The e-visa, designed for tourists and business travelers seeking quick access without visiting a consulate, replaces the previous visa-on-arrival regime, which was often exploited and inefficient.
“The e-visa policy aligns with President Tinubu’s reforms to enhance ease of doing business, boost tourism, and attract foreign investment. It is part of global best practices, already implemented by many countries,” he stated.
The statement also pointed out that while Nigeria offers e-visas to U.S. citizens, the same has not been reciprocated by the United States.
Despite the perceived visa friction, Onanuga affirmed that the Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other senior officials, remains committed to continued engagement with the U.S. to resolve any outstanding issues in a fair and constructive manner.
