Federal Govt Engages US To Secure Nigeria’s Removal From Immigrant Visa Restriction List | Citizen NewsNG
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he Federal Government has disclosed that it is engaging the United States through diplomatic channels to secure Nigeria’s removal from the list of countries impacted by Washington’s recent immigrant visa restrictions.
On January 14, the US announced a pause on immigrant visas for 75 countries, including Nigeria, a development that has sparked concern among Nigerians hoping to live and work permanently in the United States.
The restriction came into effect on January 21, 2026.
The Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, explained that visa issuance falls solely within the authority of sovereign nations, noting that Nigeria was pursuing diplomatic dialogue to address the issue and seek removal from the US visa ban or blacklisting.
“For visa issuance, it is strictly the prerogative of the issuing country, and we cannot do much because you cannot force a country to grant access to your nationals,” he said.
Ebienfa pointed out that Nigeria was not alone in being affected by the US decision and appealed to Nigerians to remain calm while discussions were ongoing.
“Moreover, Nigeria is not the only country affected by the visa restrictions. However, we are engaging them via diplomatic channels, and we are convinced that there will be a win-win situation,” he added.
The media director emphasised that the Federal Government remained committed to safeguarding the interests of Nigerians living abroad and deepening bilateral relations with the United States.
He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was collaborating closely with relevant US authorities to resolve the concerns that prompted the visa pause, expressing confidence that Nigeria would be removed from the list once the issues were addressed.
By Tanko Lami
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