An aide to former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr Bashir Ahmad, has provided a possible reason for the recent visa restriction placed on Nigerians by the United States.
NATIONAL POST recalls that the US, in a latest visa review policy, tightened its visa regulations for Nigerians in reciprocity for West African giant’s short-term visa policies towards its (US) citizens.
It announced that effective from July 8, 2025, most non-immigrant visas (such as tourist and business visas) will now be single-entry and valid for just three months.
It, however, said that visas issued before July 8 will not be affected.
Reacting, Ahmad said it was owing to President Bola Tinubu’s recent trip for the BRICS meeting.
He wrote on X, "I am of the opinion that the recent review of U.S. visa policy on Nigeria, reducing the 5-year multiple entry visa to just 3 months single entry, is not solely about reciprocity.
"Rather, it appears to reflect growing US discomfort with Nigeria’s increasing global realignment, particularly the warm reception we are receiving from the BRICS.
"Nigeria is charting its course, forging strategic partnerships that serve our national interest. Our President, Bola Tinubu’s successful outing at the BRICS Summit in Brazil sent a strong message.
"We are Nigeria and we will be alright."