Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive diplomatic action should the United States government, under President Donald Trump, impose a travel ban on Nigerian citizens.
In response to reports of a proposed U.S. visa restriction targeting 36 countries—including Nigeria—Sani emphasized the importance of national dignity and reciprocity in international relations. The proposed ban, reportedly motivated by concerns over transparency and traveler vetting systems, has sparked widespread concern across the Nigerian public and political spectrum.
“The U.S. should not ban Nigerians from traveling to their country. There is no reason to do that,” Sani stated via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. “But if they eventually ban us, our country should respond with similar gesture,” he added.
Sani urged the Tinubu administration to consider a reciprocal travel restriction on American citizens entering Nigeria if the U.S. proceeds with the ban. He stressed that Nigeria must assert its sovereignty and protect the dignity of its people on the global stage.
The former lawmaker also highlighted the value of self-respect and national pride, noting that many Nigerians cherish the peace and dignity of their homeland over seeking acceptance in places where they may not be welcomed.
This development comes amid growing scrutiny of U.S. immigration policies and their impact on diplomatic relations with African nations. The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official response to the proposed U.S. policy.