The United States is considering imposing travel restrictions on 36 countries, including Nigeria, due to rising concerns over visa overstays, weak identity documentation systems, and national security risks.
This move is based on a recent memo from the U.S. State Department, which highlights that the listed countries have not met key benchmarks for international travel and immigration cooperation. These benchmarks include the ability to provide verifiable identity documents, reducing visa overstay rates, and collaborating effectively in the repatriation of deported citizens.
Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest economies, is reported to have a tourist visa overstay rate of over 20%, one of the highest among the countries listed. The U.S. government also flagged Nigeria’s civil documentation process as unreliable, citing weaknesses in national ID and passport verification systems.
Under the proposed policy, the U.S. is giving the 36 countries a 60-day deadline to present concrete plans for addressing the issues. If the countries fail to comply, they risk facing visa restrictions, entry denials, and more stringent background checks for their citizens.
Other countries on the list include Ghana, Egypt, Sudan, Liberia, and several Caribbean and Pacific nations. The majority are African nations, which has sparked early criticism from civil rights groups who accuse the U.S. of applying double standards and targeting developing countries.
Critics have warned that this move could affect diplomatic relations, international travel, trade, and educational exchange. However, U.S. authorities insist that the decision is not political, but a necessary step to tighten border security and prevent the entry of undocumented or high-risk individuals.
The Nigerian government has not yet issued an official statement, but sources say internal discussions are already underway to address the concerns and avoid being placed on the final list.
As the deadline approaches, the affected countries are expected to work swiftly to meet U.S. demands or risk the economic and diplomatic fallout of travel sanctions.
