NOA issues advisory on responsible use of U.S. visas

By Kunle Sanni –

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has advised Nigerians to use their U.S. visas responsibly and in compliance with American immigration laws, warning that violations could result in visa revocation, deportation, or inclusion on an expanded visa ban list.

The advisory follows concerns raised by the United States Government over the misuse of U.S. visas by some Nigerian nationals.

Director-General of the NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated that U.S. authorities continue to monitor the activities of visa holders even after they arrive in the country. He stressed that engaging in activities inconsistent with the stated purpose of travel or visa classification could attract serious immigration consequences.

“Security vetting for U.S. visa applicants does not end upon arrival. U.S. authorities may revoke visas or deport individuals found to be in violation of immigration or other laws,” Issa-Onilu said.

He further urged Nigerians traveling to the U.S. to comply with all customs and immigration requirements, including declaring cash above the legal threshold and avoiding the carriage of contraband items.

For Nigerian students studying in the U.S., the NOA warned against skipping classes or dropping out without properly notifying their institutions, as such actions could lead to visa cancellation and disqualification from future visa applications.

The NOA also cautioned against the misuse of tourist visas, particularly when the primary intent is to give birth in the U.S. to secure citizenship for the child, noting that such applications are likely to be denied by consular officers.

Issa-Onilu emphasized that the Federal Government would continue to engage with the U.S. Mission in Nigeria to support efforts aimed at sensitizing Nigerians and ensuring lawful travel for education, business, and tourism.