The Federal Government has described the latest visa restriction imposed by the United States on Nigerian applicants as unfortunate, while assuring that diplomatic engagement with Washington will continue.
In a brief response to AIT News, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kiemebi Ebienfa, said the decision by the Trump administration was disturbing, given its potential adverse impact on Nigerian nationals.
He noted that Nigeria remains committed to engaging the United States through established diplomatic channels to address the concerns raised.
The United States late on Tuesday issued a presidential proclamation imposing partial visa restrictions on citizens of 15 countries, including Nigeria.
According to the proclamation, the Trump administration cited security concerns, including the activities of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State in parts of Nigeria, which it said have complicated screening and vetting processes.
The U.S. government also referenced visa overstay concerns, noting that Nigeria recorded a visitor visa overstay rate of 5.56 percent, with an overstay rate of 11.90 percent in other visa categories, based on figures published on the White House website.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
