The Nigeria Immigration Service has warned Nigerians to use their U.S. visas in strict compliance with the stated purpose of their application and avoid deportation after the U.S. Government raised concerns over the misuse of visas by some Nigerian citizens.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, urged Nigerians holding U.S. visas to strictly adhere to the terms and conditions under which the visas were granted.
NIS warned that U.S. authorities now conduct security screening beyond the initial point of entry into the country, warning that any breach of immigration or other laws can lead to visa revocation or deportation.
“All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications. “
“Breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel, ” he said.
Akinsola added that the U.S. is committed to maintaining a secure and transparent visa process, and it expects all visa holders to fully comply with immigration regulations.
He called on Nigerian students in the U.S. to stay enrolled in active study programs and avoid unauthorised withdrawals or absenteeism, warning that such actions could lead to visa cancellation and future ineligibility for U.S. travel.
Furthermore, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) stated that U.S. consular officers have the right to deny tourist visa applications from individuals suspected of planning to travel to the U.S. to give birth, with the intent of securing U.S. citizenship for their children.
“The NIS will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions.
“We are calling on all Nigerian citizens to comply with U.S. visa rules as such conduct is essential to safeguarding legitimate travel opportunities,” he said.
