The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has advised Nigerians with U.S. visas to stick strictly to the terms under which the visas were issued — or risk facing serious consequences, including being banned from future travel.
In a statement released in Abuja on Saturday, NIS spokesperson Akinsola Akinlabi said the U.S. government has raised concerns over how some Nigerians are misusing their visas.
He stressed that U.S. visas must be used for the exact reason stated during the application process — whether for tourism, business, study, or any other purpose. He warned that the American authorities carry out strict checks even after people have entered the country, and anyone found violating the rules could have their visa cancelled or be deported.
“Overstaying your visa or breaking U.S. immigration laws can lead to harsh penalties, including being kicked out of the country and permanently banned from entering again,” Akinlabi said.
He also urged Nigerian students in the U.S. to remain in their academic programmes and avoid dropping out or skipping classes without proper authorisation. Doing so, he said, could lead to visa cancellation and block future chances of studying or visiting the U.S.
The Immigration Service also noted that U.S. consular officers have the right to deny tourist visas to people they suspect are travelling just to give birth in the U.S. so their children can automatically become American citizens.
Akinlabi added that the NIS is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria doesn’t get added to any list of countries facing expanded visa restrictions.
He concluded by saying the U.S. remains committed to a secure and transparent visa system and expects all visa holders to follow the rules.
