2023 Elections: US imposes visa ban on specific Nigerians

The United States of America has announced visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process in a recent Nigerian election. 

Also, additional persons who undermine the democratic process in Nigeria—including in the lead-up to, during, and following Nigeria’s 2023 elections; may be found ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy.

In a statement on Wednesday, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken explained that under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, these individuals will be found ineligible for visas to the United States under a policy to restrict visas of those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Nigeria.

‘’Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions’’ the statement further reads.

It noted that the move was not directed at Nigerians or the Government, stressing that the decision is a reflection of the commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to combat corruption and strengthen democracy and the rule of law.