The Nigerian government has debunked claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu halted the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry visas for United States citizens, describing the reports as false and misleading.
In a statement issued from the State House on Thursday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the long-term visa arrangement with the US remains in place.
He stressed that Nigeria continues to honour its diplomatic commitments based on reciprocity and bilateral agreements.
“President Tinubu never stopped the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry visas to US nationals,” Onanuga said.
“From the outset of this administration, there has been a clear directive to honour all subsisting bilateral agreements, including those related to visa reciprocity.”
The clarification comes in response to concerns raised after the United States reduced the visa validity period for some Nigerian applicants.
The Federal Government insists that the decision by the US does not reflect Nigeria’s visa policy towards American citizens.
“The assertion by the US government that their decision is based on reciprocity does not mirror the reality,” the statement noted.
“Nigeria continues to issue 5-year non-immigrant visas to Americans, contrary to what is being implied.”
Onanuga also explained the recent introduction of Nigeria’s e-Visa system, a digital alternative to the now-defunct visa-on-arrival scheme. According to him, the 90-day single-entry limit applies only to the e-Visa, which is designed for tourists and business visitors who prefer a quick, digital process.
“The e-Visa is not a replacement for regular visas,” he said.
“It is a convenient option processed entirely online, with approvals issued within 48 hours, and it helps eliminate inefficiencies and extortion formerly associated with visa-on-arrival.”
He added that while Nigeria has extended e-visa privileges to US citizens and other nationals, the gesture has not been matched by the United States.
“The US has yet to reciprocate Nigeria’s e-Visa policy,” Onanuga noted. “However, our government remains committed to engaging with US authorities to resolve the issue in a fair and respectful manner.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to international cooperation, the presidency emphasized that dialogue with Washington will continue, aimed at preserving the strong ties and mutual respect that have defined Nigeria-US relations.
“President Tinubu’s administration is focused on fostering investment, tourism, and trade,” the statement concluded. “We are hopeful that both nations can find common ground that reflects these shared goals.”
