By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a strong advisory to Nigerian travelers, particularly those heading to the United States, urging strict compliance with the terms of their entry visas and adherence to international travel and customs regulations.
The alert follows concerns raised by the Government of the United States over the misuse of U.S. visas by some Nigerian nationals, including violations of visa conditions, failure to declare funds above the legal threshold, and attempts to export prohibited items.
In an official statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Assistant Comptroller of Customs (ACC) Abdullahi Maiwada, the NCS reminded the general public that securing a visa does not guarantee immunity from further scrutiny after arrival in the U.S.
“Nigerians are urged to note that security vetting for visa applicants does not end upon entry into the United States,” Maiwada said. “U.S. authorities will continuously monitor the activities of visa holders, and visas can be revoked if holders are found to have violated U.S. immigration protocols, import/export guidelines, or other laws.”
The Customs Service further emphasized the importance of complying with financial disclosure requirements at ports of entry and exit, particularly the mandatory declaration of any cash exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent.
“Nigerians travelling to the U.S. are reminded to declare at the point of exit or entry any excess cash above the minimum threshold of 10,000 U.S. dollars or its equivalent, and to ensure that no prohibited items are included in their baggage,” the statement read.
The Service also used the opportunity to urge Nigerian travelers to maintain lawful and ethical conduct both within and outside the country. It warned that any acts of fraud or illegality would have consequences under both Nigerian and U.S. laws.
“Passengers are encouraged to be law-abiding citizens and of good conduct within and outside Nigeria,” Maiwada stated. “Intending travelers to the United States should understand that whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences under both Nigerian and U.S. laws.”
In a move to forestall any diplomatic fallout, the Nigeria Customs Service affirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with the United States Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets all compliance requirements and avoids inclusion in any potential expanded visa restrictions.
“The Nigeria Customs Service is working closely with the U.S. Mission to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that could deny entry to law-abiding Nigerians travelling for legitimate purposes,” the statement concluded.
