US Embassy Clarifies Visa Validity Reduction, Denies Deportation Link
ABUJA – The United States Mission in Nigeria has refuted claims made by Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, regarding the recent reduction in the validity of certain U.S. visas for Nigerians. Tuggar had alleged that the restrictions were a consequence of Nigeria's refusal to accept third-party deportees from the U.S.
However, a statement issued by the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria clarified the situation: "The U.S. Mission Nigeria wishes to address misconceptions about the recent reduction in visa validity for most non-immigrant U.S. visas in Nigeria and other countries. This reduction is not the result of any nation’s stance on third country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies or affiliations with groups like BRICS."
The Embassy further explained that the decrease in visa validity is part of an "ongoing global review" of how other countries utilize U.S. visas. This review, according to the statement, employs "technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems."
