The United States has warned that visa overstays by Nigerian travellers could negatively affect the ability of other citizens to access US visas.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Monday, February 9, the US Mission in Nigeria urged Nigerians to comply with visa rules, stressing that responsible travel preserves opportunities for all.
“Visa overstays by Nigerian travellers can affect opportunities for their fellow citizens. Strengthening compliance helps protect access for students, business travellers, and families who travel responsibly,” the mission said.
The US also encouraged the public to report instances of visa fraud to designated authorities in Abuja and Lagos.
“If you are aware of visa fraud, please report it to AbujaFPU@state.gov or LagosFPU@state.gov,” it added.
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The warning comes amid a partial suspension of certain US visa categories for Nigerian nationals that took effect in January 2026.
The restriction, implemented under Presidential Proclamation 10998, limits the issuance of B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F, M, and J student and exchange visas, as well as all immigrant visas for Nigerians and citizens of 18 other countries. Exceptions exist for diplomatic, official, and humanitarian cases.
Nigeria is among 75 countries facing pauses in immigrant visa processing, the US said, explaining the measure aims to review immigration policies to prevent overreliance on public benefits and address security risks.
The US Mission urged Nigerian travellers to follow all visa rules, noting that individual compliance impacts broader access for the country’s citizens.