Reps urge US to reverse visa policy, citing threat to diplomatic ties

The house of representatives has called on the United States (US) government to reverse its new visa policy for Nigerians, warning that the change threatens decades of diplomatic, economic, and people to people relations between the two countries.

In a motion of urgent public importance adopted on Tuesday, July 22 lawmakers condemned the July 8 decision by the US department of state to reduce the validity of non immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens from a five year multiple entry visa to a three month single entry visa.

The lawmakers described the move as a unilateral policy shift that is unfair, disruptive, and diplomatically insensitive.

Leading the motion, Muhammad Muktar, supported by co sponsors Jesse Okey joe Onuakalusi, Adefiranye Ayodele Festus, Atu Chimaobi Sam, and Akiba Bassey Ekpenyong, called the policy a serious threat to the aspirations of millions of law abiding Nigerians who travel to the US for study, work, business, and family visits.

‘This house must rise in defense of the ordinary Nigerian,’ Muktar declared, stressing that if left unchallenged, the new policy could severely impact trade, educational advancement, and diaspora ties particularly at a time when Nigeria depends on over $1 billion in monthly remittances from its global citizens.

Following debate, the house resolved to formally communicate its disapproval through diplomatic and legislative channels.

The lawmakers emphasized that their goal is to advocate for the restoration of the previous five year multiple entry visa regime and to ensure that future immigration decisions reflect partnership rather than punishment.