The US visa freeze could delay over 5,000 Nigerian immigrants as President Trump pauses immigrant visa processing for 75 countries
No fewer than 5,000 intending Nigerian immigrants to the United States may face delays following a sweeping visa freeze imposed by President Donald Trump.
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President Donald Trump on Wednesday approved a policy pausing immigrant visa processing for Nigeria and 74 other countries, according to the United States State Department.
Data from the US Consulate in Lagos show that 5,626 immigrant visas were issued to Nigerians in 2023. This represented an increase of 1,407 from the 4,219 issued in 2022.
An analysis indicates that at least 5,000 Nigerians granted immigrant visas annually could be affected by the new restriction.
The policy targets foreigners seeking permanent residence in the United States.
State Department figures show that 70,621 Nigerians received US immigrant and non immigrant visas in 2024. Of this number, 7,308 were immigrant visas.
A further breakdown shows that 63,313 non immigrant visas were issued to Nigerians. Abuja accounted for 30,222, while Lagos issued 33,091.
Confirming the decision, a State Department spokesperson said immigrant visa processing would be paused for 75 countries.
The suspension will begin on January 21 and remain in effect until a review is completed.
The US government said the policy addresses screening challenges and concerns over migrants relying heavily on public benefits.
Officials described the measure as necessary to protect American economic interests.
The decision follows a recent policy imposing a visa bond of up to 15,000 dollars on nationals of 38 countries, including Nigeria. That requirement also takes effect on January 21, 2026.
Nigeria is among 27 African countries affected by the restriction. Others span Asia, Europe, the Americas and Oceania.
State Department data show that global immigrant visa issuance rose to 612,258 in 2024 from 562,976 in 2023. Non immigrant visa issuance also increased to nearly 11 million in 2024.
The United States had earlier announced a partial visa ban on Nigeria. That policy cited security challenges, extremist activity and high visa overstay rates.
Under the proclamation, entry into the United States by Nigerian nationals as immigrants and certain non immigrant categories was suspended. Visa validity periods for other categories were also reduced.
The State Department said visas issued before the effective date would not be revoked. Nigerians without valid visas outside the United States would be directly impacted.
Reacting, former Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, criticised the policy as a reversal of America’s long standing support for global mobility.
Former ambassador Godknows Igali acknowledged America’s sovereign right but urged caution. He said Nigerians in the United States are hardworking and make positive contributions.
Foreign affairs analyst Charles Onunaiju described the policy as part of a deeper shift in US domestic politics. He warned that further tightening could follow.
Former ambassador Rasheed Akinkoulie said the ban does not affect all categories equally. He noted that government officials and diplomats continue to receive visas.
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David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
