The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a serious warning to Nigerians, especially those planning to travel to the United States of America, over the misuse of US entry visas and failure to comply with travel and immigration rules.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the Customs Service, said the US government had raised concerns about how some Nigerians were abusing the privileges granted to them through US visas. He explained that some travellers were engaging in activities that did not match the purpose stated in their visa application.
Maiwada explained that receiving a visa does not mean the screening process has ended. Instead, visa holders should know that their actions continue to be monitored even after entering the US. The United States government, he said, reserves the right to revoke visas if holders are found to have violated immigration regulations, customs rules, or any US law.
“US 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,” Maiwada stated.
He further advised Nigerian travellers to be honest and law-abiding at all times, both while in Nigeria and after entering the United States. He reminded citizens that the laws of the United States are very strict and any form of fraud, smuggling, or misconduct could lead to arrest, deportation, or permanent ban from re-entry.
In addition to warning against visa misuse, Maiwada stressed the importance of declaring cash properly when travelling. He reminded travellers that anyone carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent must declare it at the airport, both when leaving Nigeria and when entering another country, in line with international financial regulations.
“It is pertinent to also note that passengers are encouraged to be law-abiding citizens and be of good conduct within and outside Nigeria,” he said. “Intending passengers to the United States should know that whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences both under US and Nigerian laws.”
Maiwada also cautioned against carrying prohibited items in luggage when travelling abroad. He explained that items that may be considered legal or harmless in Nigeria could be restricted or illegal in the US, and passengers could face serious consequences for failing to follow the rules.
He revealed that the Nigeria Customs Service is working closely with the US Embassy and Consulate in Abuja, to help ensure that Nigerians follow all necessary travel procedures and that only credible individuals benefit from the visa process.
The Customs spokesman warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to a wider visa ban on Nigerians, similar to actions taken in the past where some countries faced restrictions due to abuse of immigration privileges.
“We are doing our best to ensure that Nigeria is not placed under an extended US visa ban,” he added. “If Nigerians keep violating travel protocols, it could affect those who genuinely want to travel for study, business, tourism, or medical treatment.”
The warning comes at a time when many Nigerians are seeking opportunities abroad, especially in the United States, for better education, employment, or healthcare. However, the Customs Service is reminding citizens that such travel must be done responsibly and in full compliance with international laws.
Nigerians are advised to always obey customs rules, declare their assets, travel with the correct documents, and avoid acts that could bring the country into disrepute. The Nigeria Customs Service says it remains committed to educating citizens and protecting the integrity of the country’s global image
