The Digest:
Recent US visa restrictions imposed on Nigeria are reportedly linked to the country's refusal to accept asylum seekers from the United States, revealing the intricate Diplomatic Currents at play. The move, affecting most non-immigrant visas, reflects broader and more complex demands from the Trump administration.
Key Points:
- The US has reduced the validity and entry allowance for most non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians (three months, single entry).
- This decision is reportedly tied to Nigeria's refusal to serve as a temporary home for US-bound asylum seekers.
- The Trump administration has been pressuring various countries to house asylum seekers until their cases are processed (up to seven years).
- Diplomatic sources confirmed Nigeria declined to accept non-citizens, many of whom have pending asylum applications or are convicted prisoners.
- Trump's negotiation strategy involves imposing high penalties to gain leverage.
- Nigeria's e-visa policy offers 90-day validity for non-ECOWAS nationals, but the US does not offer similar long-term categories to Nigerians.
- The US also sought electronic access to Nigeria’s criminal database for deportation purposes.
- Nigeria's alignment with BRICS and its absence from a recent White House meeting with African leaders add to diplomatic strain.
- Nigeria has urged the US to reconsider, citing principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect.
- The proposed asylum arrangement mirrors the controversial UK-Rwanda deal.
Sources: TheCable
