Silence from Abuja as Nigerians face quiet US visa cancellations

Concerns are growing over the Nigerian government’s muted response to reports of the United States Embassy quietly revoking visas previously granted to Nigerian citizens.

The development was brought to light by Olufemi Soneye, former spokesperson of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), in an article published on Premium Times titled “The Quiet Revocation: Why is the US Embassy Silently Canceling Nigerians’ Visas?”

Soneye revealed that several Nigerians — including professionals, entrepreneurs, frequent travellers, and families — have had their valid visas revoked without prior warning.

He noted that affected individuals had confirmed receiving letters from the embassy in recent weeks instructing them to submit their passports to the consulates in Lagos or Abuja.

Upon compliance, their visas were cancelled without further explanation.

According to Soneye, the embassy cited Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 41.122, which allows visa revocation if “new information became available after the visa was issued.”

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However, no additional details, evidence, or avenues for appeal were provided.

Among those affected are: A prominent journalist whose professional commitments require international travel; The head of a federal government agency, who was scheduled to deliver an international address and an Abuja-based entrepreneur with an unblemished travel history.

Other Nigerians who depend on valid US visas for education, medical treatment, family reunions, and business engagements.

“Beyond that, nothing is explained. No evidence is shared. No avenue for appeal is offered. Recipients are merely advised to reapply if they wish – an instruction that provides no comfort to those suddenly stripped of their mobility,” Soneye wrote.

As of press time, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official response or engage with Washington on the matter, leaving affected citizens uncertain about their status and rights.