Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo Meets US Envoy Over New Visa Policy for Nigerians
Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has met with United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, following the recent changes to US visa policies affecting Nigerian citizens. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
The meeting, held on Wednesday, July 9, in Abuja, also had in attendance:
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Kemi Nanna Nandap – Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)
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Magdalene Ajani – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior
🗣️ Discussions Focused on Easing Travel & Strengthening Security
In a statement released after the closed-door session, Tunji-Ojo described the dialogue as constructive and diplomatic, emphasizing that the new US visa policy was explained in detail and linked to international travel standards and security alignment.
“The US envoy explained the rationale behind the policy and affirmed support for Nigeria’s e-visa system,” Tunji-Ojo said.
📋 Key Agreements from the Meeting:
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US endorsement of Nigeria’s e-visa system to simplify visa applications
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Deepened bilateral cooperation on immigration and travel monitoring
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Commitment to issue digitally secure travel documents with verified identities
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Steps toward managing visa overstays among Nigerian travelers
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Improved exchange of criminal records and security data to protect public safety
🆕 Summary of the US Visa Policy Change
Earlier on Tuesday, July 8, the US Embassy in Nigeria announced major revisions to its visa guidelines for Nigerian nationals:
🔻 Key Policy Changes:
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Validity: Reduced to 3 months for most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas
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Entry: Limited to single-entry only
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Effect: Applies to a wide range of Nigerian applicants, including business and tourist visas
This policy shift marks a significant departure from previous long-term, multiple-entry visas that Nigerian citizens had been accustomed to.
🔍 Public Reactions & Next Steps
The policy has sparked reactions among Nigerian professionals, frequent flyers, and students, with many expressing concerns about travel limitations, increased costs, and visa renewal hurdles.
However, the Nigerian government’s engagement with the US on the matter signals a potential pathway to review or adjust policies through mutual understanding and compliance with global travel protocols.