The U.S. Mission Nigeria says its reasons for reducing most nonimmigrant U.S. visas in the country, have been misunderstood by people.
In a statement shared on its X handle, the Mission claimed that the reduction in visa validity was not a result of Nigeria’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS.
The U.S. Mission said that the reduction in validity was part of an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries.
According to it, the review uses technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.
It emphasised its commitment to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet the necessary criteria and benchmarks.
The statement read: “The U.S. Mission Nigeria wishes to address misconceptions about the recent reduction in visa validity for most nonimmigrant 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 reduction in validity is part of an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.
“We value our longstanding partnership with Nigeria and remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet those criteria and benchmarks, thereby ensuring safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations.”