Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said that he held a constructive meeting with the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., to discuss the recently introduced U.S. visa procedures affecting Nigerian applicants.
The meeting, which aimed to foster stronger diplomatic engagement and streamline visa frameworks between both countries, was also attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Magdalene Ajani, and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap.
In a statement shared via his official X handle on Thursday, Tunji-Ojo stated that Ambassador Mills offered detailed insights into the revised U.S. visa protocols, noting that the new measures align with global standards to safeguard the integrity of the visa issuance process.
According to the minister, Ambassador Mills also commended Nigeria’s newly implemented e-visa policy, describing it as a forward-thinking initiative that enhances the efficiency and accessibility of visa applications for international visitors.
The statement read, “I held a constructive meeting with the US Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr. today, to discuss the recently introduced visa procedures for Nigerian nationals.
“The meeting, attended by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani; Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nanna Nandap, aimed at strengthening ties between Nigeria and the US through a well-structured visa framework.
“The discussions centred on visa reciprocity, with Ambassador Mills Jr. providing valuable insights into the revised protocol and its alignment with established practices to uphold the integrity of the visa process.
READ ALSO: Tinubu’s BRICS Push Behind US Visa Shift — Ex-Buhari Aide
“The Ambassador described the new e-visa policy of the Nigeria Immigration Service as an innovation intended to streamline and enhance the application process for foreign travellers into the country.
“The Ministry of Interior, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the US Mission in Nigeria agreed to strengthen collaboration, emphasizing adherence to visa regulations and promoting responsible travel practices among Nigerian citizens.
“Our government under the leadership of President #officialABAT Tinubu (GCFR) will continue to ensure strict compliance across board in key areas including:
1. Secure travel documents: Ensuring the issuance of secure travel documents with verified traveller identities.
2. Visa overstay management: Implementing measures to limit overstays by travelers on US visas.
3. Information sharing: Sharing relevant security and/or criminal record information to protect public safety.”
