Yemi Obafemi
The Presidency has debunked claims that Nigeria stopped issuing 5-year multiple-entry visas to US citizens, stating that President Bola Tinubu’s administration continues to uphold all bilateral visa agreements, contrary to recent online misinformation.
According to the government, Nigeria continues to uphold all bilateral agreements and maintains a policy of reciprocity in its diplomatic engagements.
This clarification comes in response to the United States’ recent revision of its visa policy for Nigerian citizens. On Tuesday, the US government announced a significant reduction in the validity period and entry allowance for most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians.
In a statement released Thursday via his official X handle, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration has not altered Nigeria’s longstanding policy of issuing 5-year multiple-entry visas to US nationals.
“Immediately after assuming office, President Tinubu directed that Nigeria must fully implement all bilateral agreements and adhere strictly to the principle of reciprocity,” Onanuga stated.
He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made Nigeria’s position clear regarding the US’s recent policy shift and is actively engaging with American officials to ensure that any restrictions are addressed in a fair and just manner.
The Presidency also clarified that Nigeria’s new 90-day single-entry e-visa policy does not replace the multiple-entry visa. Instead, it is a separate category designed for tourists and business travelers who prefer a faster, more convenient visa process without visiting an embassy. The e-visa system, introduced to replace the outdated and abuse-prone visa-on-arrival scheme, delivers approval within 48 hours of application.
This development, officials say, aligns with President Tinubu’s broader agenda to enhance investment, trade, and tourism by streamlining entry procedures for foreign nationals.
Despite Nigeria offering e-visas to US citizens, the US government has yet to reciprocate this arrangement for Nigerians. Nonetheless, the Nigerian government remains committed to maintaining strong diplomatic ties.
“In the spirit of cooperation, mutual understanding, and partnership, the Tinubu administration will continue to dialogue with US authorities to resolve the issues surrounding the recent visa policy changes,” Onanuga added.
