FG, U.S. embassy partner to enlighten Nigerians on new Visa rules

The Federal Government is working with the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria to educate the public about the new U.S. visa regulations in order to ensure that applicants comply with them during the visa application process, according to Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation.

The Minister said the sensitistion was required since the United States is still one of the most popular travel destinations for Nigerians.

He made this announcement during a joint news conference with Richard M. Mills Jr., the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, in Abuja on Friday.

 Nigerians have been traveling to the United States for decades for a variety of reasons, he added, including business, education, tourism, and medical treatment.

“Nigeria is globally recognised as a country whose citizens are active travelers, engaging with the world across business, education, tourism, and other vital sectors. The United States remains one of the most frequented destinations for Nigerians, reflecting the deep and long-standing ties between our two nations.

“Many Nigerians travel to the U.S. for study, work, medical care, family visits, tourism, and investment opportunities. This robust exchange continues to enrich both societies. The new developments announced by the U.S. Embassy regarding changes in its consular responsibilities and visa application procedures have been in the news recently.

“These changes, as explained by the U.S. Mission, are part of efforts to enhance service delivery, improve efficiency, and respond to evolving consular demands,” he said.

Idris appreciated the U.S. Government’s efforts to engage Nigerian citizens directly through the briefing and ensure that accurate, up-to-date information is made widely accessible.

He also underscored the mutual respect and partnership between Nigeria and the United States and the commitment of the Embassy to keeping Nigerian travelers well-informed

In his remarks, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr, said compliance with visa laws and regulations by Nigerian citizens is a vital aspect in deepening the relationship between the US and Nigeria.

 

 

He added that “Compliance with US visa laws is not just an obligation but the cornerstone of mutual trust and respect between the two countries.

He further said the US values its strong relationship with Nigeria and the many kinds of connections that exist between the two countries.

US visas play a vital role in keeping these ties going and strengthening, whether that’s enabling travels for education, for business, for tourism, for cultural exchange.

The Ambassador stressed that the US government considers it essential that visas are appropriately used in accordance with US laws and regulations.

The US Envoy emphasised that misuse of a visa or the provision of inaccurate information when applying for a visa undermines the trust between the two countries.

Ambassador Mills also applauded the Information Minister for championing freedom of expression in Nigeria, saying these are values that align with the US Policy.

 

He also commended the cooperation of Nigerian institutions, including the National Orientation Agency, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs Service, and the Presidency, in promoting public awareness on visa regulations, even as he encouraged Nigerians to access accurate information directly from the US Embassy’s consular portal, assuring prompt responses to any inquiries.