US Begins Enforcing Visa Bans on Nigerians Over Religious Freedom Violations
The United States has started enforcing visa restrictions on certain Nigerians accused of violating religious freedom, marking a tougher stance by Washington on alleged persecution linked to sectarian violence.
The development was confirmed by Mark Walker, who said the policy is already being implemented and is no longer just a directive on paper. He warned that individuals involved in religious persecution would face strict consequences, including denial of entry into the US.
“We have already executed on this policy and will continue to subject perpetrators to additional scrutiny,” Walker said, adding that those responsible for such acts are not welcome in the country.
The visa restriction policy was first announced in December 2025 by Marco Rubio. It authorises the US State Department to deny visas to individuals found to be directly or indirectly involved in violations of religious freedom, including those who plan, support or finance such acts. In some cases, the restrictions may also apply to immediate family members.
The move is grounded in provisions of the US Immigration and Nationality Act and follows mounting pressure from American lawmakers for stronger action against alleged religious persecution in Nigeria.
In November 2025, Chris Smith introduced a resolution calling for visa bans and financial sanctions targeting individuals and groups linked to religious violence. The resolution referenced organisations such as Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.
Additional pressure emerged in early 2026, with some US lawmakers proposing targeted sanctions against prominent Nigerian figures, including Rabiu Kwankwaso, over alleged involvement in religious freedom violations. However, no official sanctions list has been released.
Nigeria has long faced criticism from international observers over recurring incidents of religious and communal violence, particularly in the northern and Middle Belt regions. Reports have highlighted attacks on Christian communities, drawing global concern.
Nigerian authorities have consistently rejected allegations of religious persecution, maintaining that many of the incidents are criminal or security-related rather than driven by religious motives.
As of now, the US State Department has not disclosed the identities of those affected by the visa restrictions, leaving uncertainty over the scope and implementation of the policy.
