US Slaps Travel Ban on Nigerians, Halts Key Visas

The Donald Trump administration announced sweeping travel restrictions targeting Nigeria on December 15, 2025, suspending entry for nationals seeking immigrant visas or nonimmigrant categories including B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), B-1/B-2 (combined), F (academic studies), M (vocational training), and J (exchange programs). ​ This White House proclamation cites ongoing security threats from groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates operating in parts of Nigeria, which hinder effective vetting, alongside high visa overstay rates—5.56% for B-1/B-2 and 11.90% for F/M/J visas. ​ Consular officers must now shorten validity periods for other Nigerian nonimmigrant visas where legally possible, impacting students, professionals, and families. ​

Reasons and Context

US officials point to Nigeria’s security crisis and inadequate information-sharing as core issues, echoing a 2020 partial ban but escalating restrictions this time. ​ The proclamation frames these measures as vital for national security, counterterrorism, and immigration enforcement, noting similar total bans on countries like Burkina Faso, Chad, Niger, Syria, Sudan, and Palestine Authority passport holders due to fraud and corruption risks. ​ Nigeria’s overstay statistics exceed US benchmarks, prompting this targeted action despite ongoing US-Nigeria partnerships in other areas. ​

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Who Is Affected and Exemptions

New visa issuances in suspended categories face outright suspension, barring fresh entries even for valid holders attempting travel. ​ Exemptions apply to immediate family of US citizens or permanent residents, certain diplomats, athletes for major events, and prior entrants not needing new visas; valid existing visas allow re-entry if not expired. ​ Nigerians with unaffected visas like H-1B work or O-1 extraordinary ability may proceed, though with reduced durations. ​

Nigerian Reactions and Implications

Nigerian officials have yet to issue a formal response, but analysts warn of disruptions to education, business, and family ties, potentially affecting thousands annually. ​ This move revives debates on US-Africa relations under Trump’s second term, building on earlier threats against 25 African nations. ​ Travelers should monitor US Embassy updates for guidance. ​