The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a strong warning, stressing that anyone found guilty of corruption will be denied entry into the US, regardless of wealth or social influence.
The Mission made this announcement on Monday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
“Fighting corruption knows no borders or limits on accountability. Even when high-profile individuals engage in corruption, they can be barred from receiving US visas,” the statement read.
US Reaffirms Anti-Corruption Stand
This statement reinforces America’s global commitment to anti-corruption efforts. It also aligns with President Donald Trump’s tougher immigration stance.
Over the years, the US has imposed several visa restrictions on Nigerians.
Previous Visa Restrictions
2020 Restrictions: The US imposed visa bans that applied only to immigrant visas, leaving business, tourism, official, and student visas unaffected.
2023 Restrictions: In May 2023, the US announced fresh visa bans targeting individuals who disrupted Nigeria’s general elections.
Trump’s Immigration Clampdown
Reports from The ICIR reveal that the Trump administration intensified visa policies and cracked down on illegal immigrants in the US. Since assuming office on January 20, Trump has pursued mass deportations and wide-ranging immigration reforms.
On January 28, the Enforcement and Removal Operations division of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement disclosed that about 3,690 Nigerians could face deportation.