Category: Foreign

The United States has halted immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, including Nigeria, Russia, Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran and Brazil, citing the need to review screening procedures under the long-standing “public charge” rule. The pause, which takes effect January 21, will remain in place indefinitely while the U.S. State Department reassesses how consular officers evaluate applicants who may become dependent on public assistance after entering the country. A State Department spokesperson, Tommy Piggott, said the measure is aimed at protecting U.S. taxpayer resources and preventing abuse of welfare programmes.…

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The United States government has suspended the processing of green card and citizenship applications for Nigerian nationals, following an expansion of its immigration and travel restriction policies. The development is part of a broader U.S. move affecting several countries, with Nigeria placed under what officials describe as partial immigration restrictions. The policy does not amount to a total travel ban but significantly limits access to permanent residency and naturalisation pathways. According to reports, the suspension applies to new and pending applications for permanent residence and U.S. citizenship filed by Nigerians.…

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The Government of Canada has updated its travel advisory for Nigeria, urging citizens to avoid all non-essential travel due to persistent insecurity across the country. In the advisory released on 24 November, Canada cited ongoing threats of terrorism, crime, inter-communal violence, armed attacks and widespread kidnappings. The warning applies nationwide—including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja—while Lagos and Calabar remain under a “high degree of caution” notice due to high crime levels. Several states were classified as no-go areas where all travel should be avoided. These include Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto…

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