By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a public advisory warning Nigerians against misusing United States visas, stressing that entry into the U.S. does not exempt visa holders from ongoing scrutiny.
In a press statement dated July 29, 2025, and signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the Service noted that the U.S. Government had raised concerns about Nigerians engaging in activities that contradict the declared purpose of their travel and the category under which their visas were issued.
“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to alert the general public to the concerns raised by the Government of the United States of America on the need for Nigerians to desist from misusing entry visas granted by the US through activities that are inconsistent with the stated purpose of travel and visa classification,” the statement said.
The NCS emphasized that visa vetting continues beyond the point of entry.
It warned that U.S. immigration officials retain the authority to revoke visas at any time if holders are found in breach of immigration laws, import or export regulations, or other legal standards.
“U.S. authorities will continuously monitor the activities of visa holders, and visas can be revoked if holders are found to have violated US immigration protocols, import/export guidelines and other laws,” the Customs Service noted.
The advisory also reminded Nigerian travellers to comply with cash declaration rules when entering or exiting the country.
Individuals carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent are required to declare it to the authorities. Travellers were also warned not to transport prohibited goods in their luggage.
“It is pertinent to also note that passengers are encouraged to be law abiding citizens and be of good conduct within and outside Nigeria,” the statement added.
Intending U.S. travellers were further advised to uphold integrity in all jurisdictions. According to the Customs, “whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences both under U.S. and Nigerian laws.”
The NCS disclosed that it is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria remains in good standing.
The aim is to prevent the inclusion of Nigeria in a broader visa restriction list that could affect legitimate travellers.
“The Nigeria Customs Service wishes to reaffirm that it is working with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that will deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for their lawful business endeavours,” the statement concluded.
The Customs Service urged members of the public to take these reminders seriously in order to protect Nigeria’s global image and ensure unhindered travel for its citizens.