The Presidency has debunked viral claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu halted the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry visas to United States citizens, describing the reports as “misinformation and fake news.”
In a statement issued on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the presidency reaffirmed that Nigeria continues to issue 5-year non-immigrant visas to US citizens, in line with existing bilateral agreements and principles of reciprocity.
“President Tinubu’s administration, from the onset, directed all relevant agencies to uphold international bilateral commitments and enforce reciprocity in diplomatic relations,” the statement read.
The clarification follows public confusion after the US government adjusted its visa policy for Nigerian citizens, citing reciprocity as a factor. However, the Nigerian government maintains that such reasoning does not accurately reflect the situation.
Onanuga explained that the 90-day single-entry visa now referenced in the debate pertains only to the newly introduced e-visa category, which is targeted at short-term visitors such as tourists and businesspersons.
He noted that the e-visa replaces the outdated visa-on-arrival policy and is part of the administration’s broader agenda to promote ease of doing business, boost tourism, and attract foreign investment. The e-visa, which can be obtained online within 48 hours, streamlines the travel process for eligible foreigners.
Despite Nigeria’s efforts to modernise its visa system, including offering e-visas to Americans, the United States has not reciprocated this initiative.
The Tinubu administration reiterated its commitment to engaging US authorities through diplomatic channels to resolve any lingering misunderstandings and to strengthen the long-standing partnership between both countries.
“The spirit of mutual respect and cooperation that has historically characterised Nigeria-US relations must be preserved,” the statement added.
