The Presidency has strongly refuted online reports suggesting that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has discontinued the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry visas to U.S. citizens. In a statement issued today, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, clarified that these claims are “false and misleading,” and assured that no changes have been made to the longstanding visa arrangements between Nigeria and the United States.
“President Tinubu has never stopped issuing 5-year multiple-entry visas to U.S. citizens,” the statement read. This clarification comes in response to widespread confusion fueled by recent reports suggesting that the visa duration had been reduced to just three months, allegedly under the current administration.
The government went on to explain that these claims are based on a misunderstanding, particularly about the newly introduced e-visa system. The e-visa, which is a short-term, 90-day visa designed for business and tourist travel, is now available for eligible travelers. However, it was emphasized that the e-visa is a separate category from the traditional long-term visas for U.S. citizens. While the e-visa is part of ongoing efforts to modernize the visa process, the 5-year multiple-entry visa remains unaffected.
It is important to note that the 5-year visa policy for U.S. citizens was first implemented in 2021 under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. Contrary to claims made in recent reports, there has been no official policy change under President Tinubu in 2024. The idea that the administration quietly downgraded the visa validity to three months is not supported by any official government records or announcements.
Additionally, the statement addressed the motive behind the claims, which suggested that the change was purely driven by revenue generation. The government rejected this assertion, noting that while visa fees contribute to national revenue, the introduction of the e-visa system is part of broader efforts to attract foreign investment, stimulate tourism, and increase Nigeria’s global competitiveness, rather than a simple money-making exercise.
READ ALSO: PICTORIAL: Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo Meets U.S. Ambassador Over New Visa Procedures
The report also touched on the reciprocity principle regarding the recent changes to U.S. visa policies. The U.S. has reduced the validity of certain visa types for Nigerian citizens, including the B1/B2 visas for tourism and business. However, these changes are part of a reciprocal adjustment made in response to Nigeria’s own visa policy updates. The government urged that these actions are mutual diplomatic decisions and do not signal any hostility or bad faith on Nigeria’s part.
Furthermore, the Presidency noted that the U.S. has yet to implement an e-visa system for Nigerian citizens, despite Nigeria’s efforts to introduce a fully digital visa process to streamline travel. The Nigerian government remains committed to promoting mutual understanding and constructive engagement with the United States on visa matters.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining strong, cooperative bilateral relations with the U.S., the statement concluded by assuring the public that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to engage with U.S. authorities to resolve any discrepancies in visa policies.
This official response is aimed at clearing up misunderstandings and reinforcing Nigeria’s dedication to fostering fair and reciprocal diplomatic ties with the United States, as well as ensuring that Nigerians can benefit from improved, modernized visa options.