The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a public advisory warning Nigerian travelers that obtaining a valid US visa does not guarantee unrestricted access to the United States. According to the service, the US government retains the authority to revoke visas even after entry if travelers are found violating immigration laws, customs regulations, or other legal frameworks.

This caution was contained in a statement released by the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, who highlighted the growing concerns raised by American authorities over the misuse of entry visas and the increasing scrutiny on Nigerian travelers.

Continuous Monitoring of Visa Holders

Maiwada noted that many Nigerians mistakenly believe that security checks end once they enter the United States. However, the Customs spokesperson clarified that visa holders remain under ongoing surveillance by US authorities. Any activity that breaches immigration protocols, export/import regulations, or is inconsistent with the terms of their visa can lead to immediate revocation and possible legal consequences.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to alert the general public to the concerns raised by the Government of the United States of America on the need for Nigerians to desist from misusing entry visas granted by the US through activities that are inconsistent with the stated purpose of travel and visa classification,” the statement reads.

He reiterated that holding a visa does not give travelers the liberty to act contrary to its stated purpose. Individuals traveling on tourist, student, or business visas must ensure that their activities in the United States strictly align with what was declared during their visa application.

Declare Excess Cash and Avoid Prohibited Items

Beyond immigration compliance, the NCS emphasized the importance of following financial declaration laws. Maiwada reminded Nigerians that US law mandates travelers to declare any amount of money or monetary instruments exceeding $10,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency) when entering or exiting the country. Failure to declare such funds can lead to seizure of the cash and even prosecution.

He also warned against carrying prohibited items in luggage. “Nigerian travelers must ensure their baggage complies with both Nigerian and US laws,” he said, encouraging passengers to consult with the NCS or US Customs and Border Protection to verify what can and cannot be taken across international borders.

Collaborative Efforts to Prevent Expanded Visa Ban

Maiwada stated that the NCS is collaborating with the US Mission in Abuja to prevent Nigeria’s inclusion in any expanded US visa ban. The warning comes amidst efforts by the US government to tighten immigration controls, especially from countries flagged for high incidences of visa fraud or misuse.

He added, “It is pertinent to also note that passengers are encouraged to be law-abiding citizens and be of good conduct within and outside Nigeria. Intending passengers to the United States should know that whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences under both U.S. and Nigerian laws.”

This cooperation, he said, aims to protect the rights of law-abiding Nigerians and ensure that travelers pursuing genuine business, academic, or tourism interests can continue to access the United States without hindrance.

Birth Tourism and Misrepresentation: A Growing Concern

The US government has also reiterated its tough stance on “birth tourism” — a practice where foreign nationals travel to the United States with the primary intention of giving birth so their child automatically gains US citizenship. According to American authorities, entering the country on a tourist visa with such intent is a clear violation of immigration rules and may result in visa denial or revocation.

The US Mission in Nigeria previously clarified that any misrepresentation of purpose during visa application could have long-term consequences. Visa applicants are required to provide truthful and complete information regarding their reasons for traveling. Failing to do so can lead to not only visa revocation but also future ineligibility for entry into the US.

Authorities in the US have affirmed that all visas granted before July 8, 2025, remain valid under their existing terms. However, travelers must adhere to the original visa conditions. The new policy environment is expected to particularly affect those who frequently rely on multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, or study.

Nigerians Advised to Remain Law-Abiding

As the US government tightens its immigration and customs enforcement, the NCS has urged Nigerian citizens to maintain lawful behavior both within and outside the country. The agency emphasized that Nigerian travelers should take the advisory seriously, as any violation — even minor ones — could compromise their ability to travel internationally in the future.

Maiwada stressed the need for increased awareness, especially among first-time travelers and those unfamiliar with American immigration procedures. “We urge all travelers to educate themselves on what is expected of them under US law. Missteps, even if unintentional, can carry serious consequences,” he warned.

Conclusion: Responsibility Rests on the Traveler

The latest statement from the Nigeria Customs Service serves as a wake-up call for all Nigerian nationals traveling to the United States. While securing a visa may seem like the most critical hurdle, the true test lies in abiding by its terms and respecting both Nigerian and US laws during the entire duration of travel.

With the United States increasing surveillance and cracking down on all forms of visa misuse, especially those involving false declarations and illegal financial transactions, Nigerians are strongly advised to comply with all travel, customs, and immigration requirements to avoid penalties or future travel restrictions.