The United States government has significantly escalated its immigration crackdown on Nigeria, instituting a suspension on all legal immigration applications, including requests for green cards, naturalization, and other pathways to permanent residency.
Total Freeze on Processing
Under this new directive, Nigerian nationals are now barred from submitting new applications for these programs. Furthermore, the processing of any currently pending applications has been halted indefinitely.
According to reports from CBS News, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is enforcing this suspension in compliance with a recent executive proclamation issued by President Donald Trump.
Escalation of Previous Bans
This move marks a severe expansion of earlier restrictions that had already limited travel for Nigerians applying for visitor (B-1/B-2) and student (F, M, J) visas. The new policy goes a step further by completely blocking the road to citizenship and permanent settlement.
Other Countries Affected
Nigeria is not the only nation hit by this policy. The list of affected countries includes Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, Syria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Reason for the Ban
US authorities have cited national security as the primary driver for this decision. They pointed to a:
“general lack of stability and government control”
in the listed countries, arguing that this instability makes it impossible to properly vet applicants or assess potential security risks.
The USCIS further clarified that it is:
“conducting a comprehensive review of anyone from anywhere who poses a threat to the U.S., including those identified in the President’s latest proclamation.”
Nigerian Government Silent
As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian government has not issued an official response to these expanded restrictions. However, in past diplomatic engagements, Nigeria has signaled its willingness to work with US officials to resolve concerns regarding immigration and security vetting.