The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a warning to Nigerians traveling to the United States, cautioning them against breaching the terms of their US visas. According to the Comptroller-General of the NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, the warning follows concerns raised by the US government about Nigerians misusing entry visas.
In a statement released by the NCS Spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, Adeniyi emphasized that security vetting for visa applicants does not end upon entry into the US. US authorities, he said, 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 NCS Comptroller-General also reminded Nigerians traveling to the US that they are required to declare any cash exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent at the point of exit or entry. This, he said, is necessary to ensure that prohibited items are not included in their baggage.
Adeniyi urged all passengers to be law-abiding citizens and to conduct themselves responsibly within and outside Nigeria. “Intending passengers to the US should know that whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences both under US and Nigerian laws,” he warned.
The NCS is working closely with the US Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria complies with the conditions necessary to avoid being listed under an expanded visa ban. Such a ban, Adeniyi noted, would deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for lawful business endeavors.
This development highlights the importance of Nigerians adhering to the terms of their visas and complying with US laws and regulations. The NCS’s warning serves as a reminder to travelers to be aware of their responsibilities and to avoid engaging in activities that could lead to visa revocation or other legal consequences.
By working together with the US Mission, the NCS aims to promote a positive and responsible travel experience for Nigerians visiting the US. As the agency responsible for enforcing customs regulations and facilitating international trade, the NCS is committed to ensuring that Nigeria meets the necessary criteria to maintain a healthy visa relationship with the US.
