The United States Embassy in Nigeria has confirmed it has revoked visas already issued to some Nigerian citizens, sparking concern among students, businesspeople and professionals who suddenly found themselves unable to travel.
Reports of cancelled visas
According to a report by The Guardian newspaper, Nigerians who had previously secured visas were contacted by the US embassy and told to return their passports. Soon after, their visas were revoked without any detailed explanation.
Affected individuals include students with study visas, as well as professionals and business travellers. The development has caused confusion, particularly because Nigeria is not among the countries currently listed under America’s outright visa bans or restrictions.
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Those affected were told only that ‘new information’ had come to light, though no further details were offered.
Embassy cites security reasons
A spokesperson for the US embassy confirmed to BBC News Pidgin the authority to revoke visas, saying the step was being taken on an unprecedented scale.
‘We are using all the information available to us to do this on a scale never seen before, in order to keep American borders secure and American communities safe,’ the spokesperson said.
The official added that Section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act gives the Secretary of State and consular officers full discretion to revoke visas at any time where there is an indication of ineligibility.
Trump’s second-term policies
The embassy stressed that the measures are part of the Trump administration’s broader approach to border security.
‘The Trump administration is protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process. Prohibiting entry to the United States by those who may pose a threat to US national security or public safety is key to protecting US citizens at home,’ the statement read.
It added that visas can be revoked if a foreign visitor overstays, engages in crime, provides material support to terrorism, or otherwise violates US law.
Social media scrutiny
In recent years, the US State Department has expanded the scope of visa checks to include applicants’ social media activity.
In June 2025, a Nigerian woman was deported just two hours after landing in the US when immigration officials reviewed her Instagram messages.
It is unclear whether the latest round of revocations is linked to social media content, and whether it is limited to Nigerian nationals or also extends to other African citizens.
BBC News Pidgin reported that some long-term visa holders confirmed their visas remained valid.
Wider immigration clampdown
Since beginning his second term, President Donald Trump has rolled out a series of anti-immigration measures.
Last month, the State Department announced it would review visas already issued to Nigerians and other nationals to identify breaches.
In August, the validity of visas for Nigerians and citizens of some African countries was cut to just three months. This move was said to be in retaliation for Nigeria’s decision to reduce visa validity for Americans. Nigerian officials, however, insisted they still issue five-year multiple-entry visas to US nationals.
In July, Washington also ended Temporary Protected Status for Cameroonians, leaving about 8,000 people at risk of deportation.
