US Ambassador Richard Mills discussing US visa restrictions for Nigerians at Abuja press briefing.

The United States has stepped forward to clear the air regarding the upcoming changes to its visa policies for Nigerians. 

At a recent press briefing in Abuja, U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills addressed the growing concerns, stating firmly that the new measures are about safety, not a crackdown on citizens.

Speaking during a visit from a U.S. Congressional Delegation (CODEL), Ambassador Mills explained that the "Presidential Proclamation," set to take effect on January 1, 2026, is a strategic move to tighten security. The goal is to ensure that the vetting process is backed by credible information.

"This isn't about penalizing Nigerians," Mills reassured the public. Instead, it is a move to modernize how the U.S. verifies applicants, ensuring that the system remains secure for everyone involved.

While the proclamation will affect specific visa categories, it isn't a blanket rule. Certain groups are exempt from these new restrictions. 

If you hold a diplomatic or official passport, or if you are traveling for religious purposes, these changes won't apply to you.

U.S. Congressman Bill Huizenga, who led the visiting delegation, echoed this sentiment. He pointed out that these types of reviews are standard global practice. 

According to him, the focus is on improving government systems and data sharing, a routine procedure the U.S. applies to various countries worldwide to encourage better cooperation.

For those planning to travel in the coming years, the message is clear: don't rely on rumors. The Ambassador urged the public and prospective applicants to visit the official U.S. Embassy website for a comprehensive breakdown of affected categories and exemptions.

If you have specific questions about your situation, the embassy has established dedicated communication channels to provide direct guidance. 

For now, the focus remains on a smoother, more transparent vetting process as the 2026 start date approaches.