FG, US embassy partner to educate Nigerians on new US visa rules

Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, says the federal government is working with the United States embassy in Nigeria to sensitise citizens on new US visa regulations to ensure compliance during application processes.

Idris spoke on Friday at a joint press conference with Richard Mills Jr, US ambassador to Nigeria, in Abuja.

He said the sensitisation was necessary because the US remains one of the most visited destinations for Nigerians, with citizens travelling for tourism, business, education and medical care.

“Nigeria is globally recognised as a country whose citizens are active travellers, engaging with the world across business, education, tourism, and other vital sectors,” he said.

“The United States remains one of the most frequented destinations for Nigerians, reflecting the deep and long-standing ties between our two nations.

“Many Nigerians travel to the US for study, work, medical care, family visits, tourism, and investment opportunities. This robust exchange continues to enrich both societies.

“The new developments announced by the US embassy regarding changes in its consular responsibilities and visa application procedures have been in the news recently.

“These changes, as explained by the US mission, are part of efforts to enhance service delivery, improve efficiency, and respond to evolving consular demands.”

The minister commended the US government for engaging directly with Nigerian citizens and ensuring that accurate information is widely accessible.

He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations.

In his remarks, Mills said compliance with visa laws is critical to deepening ties between the two countries.

“Compliance with US visa laws is not just an obligation but the cornerstone of mutual trust and respect between the two countries,” he said.

“As the minister just indicated, he and I had useful discussion about US visa laws and how to message to the Nigerian people, the importance of compliance with the visa laws.

“Let me be clear, the US values its strong relationship with Nigeria and the many kinds of connections that exist between our two countries. Our visas play a vital role in keeping these ties going and strengthening, whether that’s enabling travels for education, and cultural exchange.”

The ambassador emphasised that visas must be used in accordance with US laws and regulations.

“We, of course, welcome Nigerian visitors to the United States just as Nigeria welcomes Americans to this country. Both governments want visitors to respect our national laws and regulations.

“We encourage all applicants to provide truthful information and abide by the terms of their visas, as I know, a great majority of Nigerians do. By doing that, we are going to strengthen the bonds between our countries,” Mills said.

He also commended Idris for championing freedom of expression in Nigeria and praised the cooperation of Nigerian institutions, including the National Orientation Agency, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs Service, and the presidency, in promoting awareness of visa regulations.

Mills urged Nigerians to access information directly from the embassy’s consular portal and assured prompt responses to inquiries.