A former lawmaker and ex-representative of the Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has urged African leaders to remain in their countries and focus on rebuilding them in the face of growing visa restrictions imposed by Western nations.
Sani made the call on Wednesday via his verified 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) handle while reacting to the recent visa ban imposed by the United States Government on some African countries.
Naijaonpoint reports that the reaction followed a new proclamation signed by United States President Donald Trump, which further tightened restrictions on the entry of foreign nationals into the country.
The latest directive added 15 more countries to the list facing partial travel limitations, bringing the number of affected nations to 23, including Nigeria.
Reacting to the development, Sani noted that the initial visa ban had been justified on the grounds of religious persecution, a move that initially drew mixed reactions online.
“They said the first visa ban focused on those who engage in acts of religious persecution, and many jubilated on social media,” he said.
He, however, pointed out that the second round of restrictions was broader and more sweeping.
“The second visa restriction is for everyone and Nigeria is listed among 23 others,” Sani stated.
The former lawmaker also drew attention to the pattern of countries affected by the latest restrictions, noting the absence of Arab nations on the list.
“The recent list has no Arab countries but mostly Black Africans and Caribbeans, even though safety and security were used as the basis,” he said.
According to Sani, the expanded visa ban sends a strong signal to developing nations, particularly in Africa.
“The message is very clear. Third World migrants are not welcomed. Stay back and build your country or deal with your problems,” he said.
His comments have since sparked discussions on social media about migration, global inequality and the responsibility of African leaders to improve governance and living conditions at home.