US embassy explains why Nigerians’ visas are being revoked
The United States Government has defended its decision to cancel visas previously issued to Nigerians and nationals of other countries, insisting the move is necessary for national security.
The clarification follows a recent Daily Sun report, titled: The quiet revocation: Why is the U.S. silently cancelling Nigerians’ visas?, which detailed how dozens of Nigerians, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and frequent travellers, have received letters from the U.S. Embassy instructing them to submit their passports, only to have their visas cancelled.
According to the report, the cancellation notices cite Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 41.122 as the legal basis, vaguely noting that “new information” had emerged after the visas were issued. No further evidence is provided, nor is there an appeal process. Recipients are simply advised to reapply, an option many say offers little comfort.
Responding to the controversy, a spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy told Daily Sun that the decision reflects Washington’s commitment to protecting its citizens.
Also Read: Why is the U.S. embassy quietly revoking Nigerian Visas
“The Trump Administration is protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process,” the official said. “Prohibiting entry to the U.S. by those who might pose a threat to national security or public safety is key to protecting U.S. citizens at home.”
The Embassy stressed that continuous security vetting applies to all 55 million foreigners currently holding valid U.S. visas. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), the Secretary of State and consular officers have wide discretion to revoke visas at any time if new information suggests a holder may be ineligible.
The spokesperson added that revocations are carried out in cases involving visa overstays, criminal activity, terrorism-related concerns, or other violations of U.S. law.
“While we have had this revocation authority for decades, we are using all the information we have to do this on a scale never seen before, in order to keep American borders secure and American communities safe,” the official said.
The embassy’s response, however, has done little to ease concerns among Nigerians suddenly stripped of valid visas without detailed explanations, fuelling debate over transparency and fairness in the process.
