The Federal Government has commenced diplomatic engagements with the United States in a bid to secure Nigeria’s removal from the list of countries affected by Washington’s recent immigrant visa restrictions.
The United States announced on January 14 an immigrant visa pause impacting 75 countries, including Nigeria, a decision that took effect on January 21, 2026 and has sparked widespread concern among Nigerians seeking permanent residence or employment in the US.
Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, said Nigeria was actively engaging US authorities through established diplomatic channels to resolve the issue and ensure the country is delisted.
Ebienfa acknowledged that visa issuance remains the exclusive prerogative of sovereign states, noting that Nigeria could not compel another country to admit its citizens but was nonetheless pursuing constructive dialogue.
“For visa issuance, it is strictly the prerogative of the issuing country, and we cannot do much because you cannot force a country to grant access to your nationals,” he said.
He emphasised that Nigeria was not alone in the latest visa restrictions and urged affected citizens to remain calm while diplomatic efforts continue.
“Nigeria is not the only country affected by the visa pause. We are engaging the US through diplomatic channels, and we are optimistic that there will be a win-win outcome,” Ebienfa added.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of Nigerians abroad and strengthening bilateral relations with the United States.
According to Ebienfa, the ministry is working closely with relevant US agencies to address the concerns that prompted the visa pause, expressing confidence that Nigeria would be removed from the list once outstanding issues are resolved.
