Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential aide, suggests that the recent adjustment to the United States’ visa policy for Nigerians is a consequence of Nigeria’s deepening ties with BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s active engagement with emerging global blocs.
Ahmad made this assertion in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, responding to reports that the U.S. had reduced the visa validity for Nigerian applicants from a five-year multiple-entry visa to a three-month single-entry visa.
“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,” he wrote. “It appears to reflect growing U.S. discomfort with Nigeria’s increasing global realignment, particularly the warm reception we are receiving from the BRICS.”
Ahmad emphasized that Nigeria is taking control of its future by forming strategic partnerships in its best interest. He added that President Tinubu’s impactful participation at the BRICS Summit in Brazil sent a clear and powerful message, showcasing Nigeria’s strength and confidence on the global stage.
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria clarified that the change is a response to Nigeria’s own visa policy for American citizens. “Starting today, the majority of non-immigrant and non-official visas issued to Nigerians will be valid for three months and allow only a single entry,” the embassy stated.
