From July 8, nearly all non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens will be limited to a single entry and valid for just three months. This is a marked shift from previous arrangements, which often allowed multiple entries over a span of two years or more.

The US Department of State says the changes form part of a worldwide review of its visa policies, aimed at ensuring greater reciprocity with how American citizens are treated by other governments.

The revised policy is expected to affect thousands of Nigerians who travel to the US each year for education, business, and tourism. Nigeria is among the top countries globally in terms of student visa applications to the US, with many young people seeking academic opportunities abroad.

Washington has not elaborated on why Nigeria was specifically targeted for this revision, but analysts suggest it may be linked to ongoing efforts to streamline US immigration protocols and enforce stricter entry standards.

Nigerian authorities have yet to issue a formal response to the new restrictions.

--ChannelAfrica