A new immigration directive from President Donald Trump has triggered uncertainty for thousands of Nigerians seeking to move to the United States. The order, announced on January 14, 2026, suspends immigrant visa processing for Nigeria and 74 other countries, citing security concerns and high dependency on public benefits.

The Numbers

• 5,626 immigrant visas were issued to Nigerians in 2023, up from 4,219 in 2022.
• In 2024, 70,621 visas (immigrant and non-immigrant combined) were granted to Nigerians.
• Analysts estimate that at least 5,000 immigrant visas annually could be affected by the new restrictions.
• Globally, immigrant visa issuance rose to 612,258 in 2024, reflecting a steady increase since 2020.

The Policy

• The State Department confirmed a pause in immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026.
• The suspension is indefinite, pending a review of screening and vetting procedures.
• The order follows a visa bond requirement of up to $15,000 imposed on nationals from 38 countries, including Nigeria, targeting high visa overstay rates.
• The proclamation specifically suspends entry for Nigerians on immigrant visas and certain non-immigrant categories (B-1, B-2, F, M, J).

Countries Affected

The restrictions cover:

• 27 African nations including Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Egypt.
• 22 Asian countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and Lebanon.
• 8 European states including Russia, Albania, and Belarus.
• 13 North American and Caribbean nations including Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba.
• 3 South American countries (Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay) and Fiji in Oceania.

Why the US Says It Acted

Washington argues that migrants from the listed countries pose “substantial screening and vetting difficulties” and rely excessively on public welfare. The Trump administration insists the freeze is necessary to protect American taxpayers and strengthen national security.

Nigerian Reactions

• Ogbole Amedu-Ode, former Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico, criticised the move as contradictory to America’s advocacy for free movement, calling it “reverse gear on globalisation.”
• Godknows Igali, ex-Ambassador, acknowledged America’s sovereign right but urged consideration of Nigeria–US relations, stressing Nigerians’ positive contributions to US society.
• Charles Onunaiju, foreign affairs analyst, described the restrictions as part of a broader shift in US politics, warning Nigerians to “prepare for the worst.”
• Rasheed Akinkoulie, another ex-diplomat, noted that while conditions are stricter, officials and diplomats still receive visas.

Implications

• Thousands of Nigerians planning to migrate could face indefinite delays.
• Skilled professionals and students may be disproportionately affected, despite their strong track record in the US.
• The restrictions could strain Nigeria–US relations, especially in trade, education, and security cooperation.
• Diplomats urge Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to sustain dialogue with Washington to seek removal from the list.

Bottom Line

The visa freeze marks one of the most sweeping immigration restrictions in recent US history, affecting 75 countries across multiple continents. For Nigeria, where demand for US visas remains high, the policy could disrupt migration plans for thousands and reshape bilateral ties.