On July 10, 2025, the Nigerian presidency released a statement to address claims spreading online about changes to visa rules for U.S. citizens.
The government made it clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not stop the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visas for Americans.
The statement explained that since taking office, the Tinubu administration directed all ministries and departments to follow existing agreements Nigeria has with other countries. It also said Nigeria remains committed to treating countries equally in diplomatic matters.
The government responded to recent changes made by the United States to its visa policy for Nigerians. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had already shared the country’s position, stating that the claim of reciprocity made by the U.S. does not match what Nigeria is actually doing.
According to the statement, Nigeria still gives U.S. citizens 5-year multiple-entry visas. This is in line with what the U.S. gives to Nigerians. A new type of visa—the 90-day single-entry e-Visa—was introduced only for people who want to avoid the long embassy process. It is for short visits and can be obtained online within 48 hours. This e-Visa replaced the older visa-on-arrival system, which had many problems.
The e-Visa aims to make it easier for tourists and business people to enter Nigeria. The government believes this new system will help bring more investment and improve travel for foreign visitors. While Nigeria allows e-Visas for U.S. citizens and others, the U.S. has not done the same for Nigerians.
The statement ended by saying that Nigeria will keep talking with U.S. officials to sort out any problems and keep the strong relationship between both countries.
The statement was issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.