- Sani wrote that those affected should not delay their departure from the U.S.,
- no matter how comfortable life may seem, “it is not their father’s house.”
- the U.S. State Department has revoked at least 80,000 visas since January 2025
Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has cautioned Nigerians and other Africans affected by the recent wave of United States visa cancellations to return home immediately before facing possible arrest by immigration authorities.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the former lawmaker issued the warning in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, following reports of a large-scale visa revocation exercise carried out under President Donald Trump’s administration.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Lagos APC Lauds Tinubu’s Commitment to Democracy Amid Anambra Election
- Aminat Alabi Becomes First Lagosian To Win Lagos Women Run Open Category
- ‘Nigeria Is Safe, Security Improving’ – FG Replies UK Over Travel Advisory
Sani wrote that those affected should not delay their departure from the U.S., warning that staying longer could lead to arrest by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He reminded Africans living abroad that no matter how comfortable life may seem, “it is not their father’s house.”
According to reports, the U.S. State Department has revoked at least 80,000 visas since January 2025 more than double the figure recorded the previous year. The cancellations include about 16,000 for driving under the influence, 12,000 for assault, and 8,000 student visas.
Authorities also cited terrorism-related concerns, public safety threats, and criminal violations as reasons for the revocations.
Although the nationalities of those affected were not officially disclosed, earlier reports indicated that thousands of African students were among them.
The U.S. government has intensified visa regulations in recent months. In July, applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas were instructed to make their social media accounts public to enhance background screening.
The same month, the U.S. Embassy announced a new policy for Nigerian applicants, reducing the validity period for several visa categories.
FURTHER READING
