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National Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwada
The Nigeria Customs Service has issued a strong advisory urging citizens to avoid misusing their United States visas, warning that any violation of US travel regulations could result in serious consequences.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the NCS spokesperson, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, highlighted growing concerns raised by the U.S. government over visa abuse by some Nigerian travellers.
“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 partly read.
The agency cautioned that entering the U.S. with a valid visa does not exempt travellers from ongoing scrutiny by American authorities, who retain the right to revoke visas at any time if terms are breached.
According to the NCS, offences such as immigration violations, undeclared funds, or transporting prohibited goods could trigger revocation of travel privileges. The agency also reminded travellers to adhere to mandatory cash declaration rules.
“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 both under U.S. and Nigerian laws,” it continued.
The Customs Service noted that it is collaborating with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to prevent Nigeria from being added to any expanded list of countries facing visa restrictions.
“The Nigeria Customs Service wishes to reaffirm that it is working with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that will deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for their lawful business endeavours”, the statement concluded.
The agency urged travellers to maintain transparency, follow travel laws, and represent the country positively while abroad. (PUNCH)
