The Nigeria Immigration Service has issued a fresh warning to Nigerians traveling to the United States, advising them to strictly observe the conditions attached to their visas.
The advisory comes in response to complaints reportedly raised by U.S government about repeated violations by some Nigerian travelers, including overstays and visa misuse.
In a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, the NIS spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, emphasized that holders of U.S. visas must use them only for the purposes declared during their application process.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians.
Akinlabi noted that the U.S. government remains firm in its commitment to border security and requires that all foreign nationals fully respect its immigration policies while on American soil.
He also urged Nigerian students studying in the U.S. to maintain active enrollment and not engage in any form of truancy or unauthorized academic withdrawal, stressing that such actions could jeopardize their visa status.
Also, the NIS reminded the public that attempts to secure U.S. citizenship for children through birth tourism could lead to visa denials.
“The NIS will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions,” he said.
“We are calling on all Nigerian citizens to comply with U.S. visa rules as such conduct is essential to safeguarding legitimate travel opportunities.”
The agency reiterated its commitment to promoting lawful migration and maintaining strong bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United States.