The United States Mission in Nigeria has defended its recent directive requiring Nigerian visa applicants to disclose all social media usernames and handles used in the past five years, emphasizing that the measure is necessary to ensure national security.
In a statement on Monday, the U.S. Embassy reaffirmed that security remains central to the American visa application process, stating that the policy supports efforts to maintain a safe and welcoming environment in the United States.
“The safety and security of the United States is at the heart of every #USVisa application and decision process,” the embassy wrote via its official X (formerly Twitter) account.
“Prospective applicants undergo careful screening to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all. These measures help protect American citizens and communities while supporting secure and responsible travel.”
The new requirement mandates applicants to list all social media handles used within the last five years on the DS-160 visa application form. Failure to provide accurate or complete information could result in visa denial or affect future applications.
In response to the U.S directive, the Nigerian Federal Government signaled its intention to implement reciprocal measures for American citizens seeking entry into Nigeria.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised over the policy’s implications on civil liberties and international relations.
Femi Soneye, a former spokesperson for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), criticized the move in a recent article, arguing that it could infringe on freedom of expression, cultural authenticity, and civic engagement.
Soneye warned that such policies may further strain U.S Nigeria relations at a time when collaboration and mutual respect are more important than ever.
Despite the criticisms, the U.S. insists that comprehensive vetting including online presence checks is vital in today’s digital age, particularly to prevent the entry of individuals who may pose security threats.
