he Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a strong advisory urging Nigerian citizens to use their U.S. visas strictly in line with the purpose stated in their visa applications, following concerns raised by the United States Government over increasing incidents of visa misuse.
In a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, the NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, stressed that all Nigerian holders of U.S. visas must comply with the terms and conditions under which their visas were granted.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians,” Akinlabi said. “All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications.”
He noted that U.S. authorities conduct ongoing security screenings beyond the point of entry and any breach—such as overstaying, violating immigration laws, or deviating from the approved visa purpose—can lead to visa revocation, deportation, and permanent ineligibility for future U.S. travel.
Akinlabi specifically advised Nigerian students in the U.S. to remain in active academic programmes and avoid unauthorised withdrawals or absenteeism, warning that such actions may result in the cancellation of their visas.
The advisory also warned that U.S. consular officers may deny tourist visas to applicants suspected of intending to travel for childbirth purposes in an attempt to secure birthright citizenship for their children.
Reaffirming NIS's commitment to responsible migration, Akinlabi stated, “The NIS will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions.”
He called on all Nigerians to respect U.S. visa rules, stressing that responsible conduct is essential to protecting legitimate travel opportunities and maintaining international mobility for law-abiding citizens.
ADEOLA KUNLE
