On Tuesday, July 22, the House of Representatives strongly criticized the recent decision by the United States government to reduce the validity of non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens. Lawmakers described the policy shift as unfair, harmful to U.S.–Nigeria relations, and detrimental to millions of law-abiding Nigerians.
The condemnation followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Muhammad Muktar and several co-sponsors. The motion addressed the reduction of visa validity from five-year multiple-entry to a three-month single-entry, a change set to take effect on July 8, 2025.
“Mr. Speaker, Honourable Colleagues, this House must rise in defense of ordinary Nigerians whose aspirations to study, work, or reunite with family in the U.S. are now under threat from this unilateral policy change,” Hon. Muktar said.
Lawmakers warned that the new policy would significantly disrupt academic pursuits, business operations, and family life, particularly for Nigeria’s large diaspora community. Muktar noted that the decision could jeopardize Nigeria’s efforts to attract over $1 billion in monthly remittances through diaspora bond initiatives.
The House emphasized the long-standing strategic partnership between Nigeria and the United States, grounded in shared democratic values and cooperation in key areas such as education, security, and trade. Lawmakers expressed concern that the visa policy change undermines decades of goodwill and mutual collaboration.
In defending Nigerians living in the U.S., the House highlighted their positive contributions across sectors including healthcare, technology, academia, the arts, and public service. Prominent Nigerians such as author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, forensic pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu, and legislator Uzoma Asagwara were cited as examples of the community’s impact.
The motion also recalled the efforts of the Nigeria–United States Parliamentary Friendship Group (NUSPFG), which has previously engaged with American lawmakers and institutions to promote dialogue on issues such as security, immigration fairness, and mutual respect.
Following deliberation, the House unanimously passed a resolution to:
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Condemn the U.S. visa policy change;
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Urge the U.S. government to rescind the decision;
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Mandate the NUSPFG to formally communicate Nigeria’s position to U.S. authorities;
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Direct the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage diplomatically with the U.S. on the matter; and
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Encourage continued dialogue between Nigerian and American institutions.
The House also urged the United States to adopt a more balanced and context-sensitive policy that reflects the depth of bilateral ties and supports continued people-to-people engagement. Lawmakers stressed that Nigeria remains a key regional partner, committed to peace, democracy, and global cooperation.