Experts say recent U.S. visa cancellations for some Nigerians are based on reciprocity and security concerns, and will not affect bilateral relations between both countries.
International relations experts have downplayed concerns that the recent revocation of valid visas by the United States government for some Nigerians will negatively affect bilateral relations between the two countries.
Associate Professor Joshua Olusegun Bolarinwa of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and Ambassador Victor Asije of the International Society of Diplomats told Sunday Independent that the move should be understood within the context of reciprocity and security concerns.
Bolarinwa explained that “visas are expected to be seen as bilateral instruments of foreign policy,” adding that countries frequently adjust visa fees and rules based on diplomatic practices. He stressed that the Tinubu administration is already in talks with Washington to possibly restore visas already granted before cancellation.
“As soon as Nigeria increased its visa fees, the U.S. also increased hers,” he said, noting that reciprocal actions were standard in diplomacy.
Ambassador Asije urged Nigerians not to misinterpret the cancellations, emphasizing that “the U.S. government came out swiftly to explain … the move was for security reasons.” He assured that the long-standing relationship between the two countries remains intact, and expressed optimism that mutual agreements would soon be reached.