Abuja, Nigeria — The Presidency has refuted claims that President Bola Tinubu halted the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry visas to American citizens.
In a statement released on Thursday by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the report was described as false and misleading, stressing that Nigeria’s visa policy toward the US remains unchanged.
“President Tinubu has never ordered a stop to the issuance of 5-year visas to US citizens,” Onanuga affirmed. “Nigeria continues to uphold all bilateral agreements and diplomatic protocols, including those with the United States.”
The clarification follows the U.S. State Department’s recent update to its visa policy, citing a lack of reciprocity as the reason for reducing visa validity for Nigerian applicants. However, Onanuga disputed the basis of the U.S. decision, stating, “The US government’s claim of reciprocity does not reflect the actual situation. Nigeria still grants 5-year multiple-entry visas to Americans.”
He noted that President Tinubu had earlier instructed all government agencies to fully implement existing bilateral agreements and ensure fair treatment of foreign nationals.
Onanuga also introduced the newly launched 90-day single-entry e-visa, a fully online system designed for tourists and business travelers seeking short-term access to Nigeria. “This innovation replaces the problematic visa-on-arrival system and is not a substitute for the long-term visa,” he explained.
While Nigeria has opened the e-visa option to U.S. citizens, Onanuga noted that the U.S. has yet to reciprocate with similar access for Nigerian travelers.
Despite the disparity, the Presidency affirmed Nigeria’s readiness to maintain open dialogue and strengthen diplomatic ties. “In the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, President Tinubu’s administration will continue to work with U.S. authorities to ensure fair visa policies,” the statement concluded.
By Makinde oyinkansola| July 10, 2025
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