Thousands of Nigerian students planning to study in the United States are facing major visa setbacks after former U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the suspension of all F1 student visa appointments worldwide.
In a directive issued via a U.S. State Department cable, American embassies and consulates—including in Abuja and Lagos—have been instructed to pause all new visa appointments for F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange visitor) visas indefinitely.
NAIJABLOGDAILY.COM
The suspension is part of a global review of visa screening procedures, with a focus on enhanced social media checks for international applicants. According to the cable, new guidelines for expanded vetting protocols will be released “within days.”
This latest visa policy has caused panic among Nigerian students, many of whom were already struggling with months-long interview delays at U.S. consulates. With the Fall 2025 academic session fast approaching, uncertainty now looms over thousands of students hoping to resume or begin studies in the U.S.
The Trump administration’s move is linked to efforts to crack down on ‘far-left ideologies’ allegedly infiltrating American universities. It also ties into a broader national security campaign requiring visa officers to review social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) for any signs of extremist content, including expressions of solidarity with Palestine.
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The stricter measures are expected to impact Nigerian visa applicants disproportionately, as Nigeria remains one of Africa’s top sources of international students in the U.S. Nigerian students contribute significantly to the U.S. economy, with over $43.8 billion generated annually by foreign students overall.
Now, many aspiring scholars may need to reconsider their study plans or face long waiting periods as they navigate the new visa hurdles under Trump’s evolving immigration policies.
Tags: F1 visa suspension, Nigerian students visa news, Trump immigration policy, U.S. embassy Nigeria, study abroad Nigeria, Fall 2025 U.S. visa, student visa delays, social media vetting, Nigeria to USA education, international student crisis
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