US Visa vetting (1).webp
The Trump-led U.S. administration has paused all new student visa interviews and is preparing to roll out a strict social media vetting process. Nigerian applicants may be among the most affected, raising concerns among students and universities alike.
  • U.S. embassies instructed to halt new student visa interview appointments (F, M, J categories).
  • Social media profiles may now be screened before visa approval.
  • Directive signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, per leaked cable.
  • The move affects international students worldwide, especially Nigerians.
  • Comes after reports of revoked visas without explanation.
  • Linked to broader executive actions on security and antisemitism, amid the Harvard funding row.
For thousands of Nigerians eyeing U.S. academic programs, this shift signals growing uncertainty. It’s not just red tape, this pause may delay or derail life plans. The move also reflects a broader U.S. policy trend toward aggressive surveillance, even of young scholars, in the name of national security.

With the U.S. pivoting to stricter controls, prospective Nigerian students are urged to stay updated on embassy announcements and consider alternate study destinations if delays persist.