The U.S. Embassy in Abuja says the recent mass visa revocations for Nigerians are legal and tied to national security concerns.
The United States has defended its decision to revoke visas issued to Nigerian travelers, describing the move as a security measure “within its legal mandate.”
An embassy spokesperson told Business Insider Africa that the cancellations, carried out on a “scale never seen before,” are aimed at “securing America’s borders.” Citing Section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the spokesperson said consular officers have the authority to revoke visas at any time if there is “indication of a potential ineligibility.”
“The Trump Administration is protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process,” the Embassy stated.
Students, professionals, and entrepreneurs are among those affected. The revocations come amid a proposed rule that would restrict the length of stay for international students and exchange visitors to a maximum of four years, part of a broader crackdown on visa abuse and overstays.