Trump Administration Weighs Inclusion of Nigeria, Ghana, and 34 Other Countries in U.S. Travel Ban

Trump Administration Considers Travel Restrictions for Nigeria and 35 Other Countries

The Trump administration is contemplating significant travel restrictions that could prevent citizens from Nigeria and 35 additional countries from entering the United States. A memo signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlines a 60-day deadline for these nations to meet new benchmarks set by the State Department.

The memo, sent to U.S. diplomats, highlights concerns regarding the lack of reliable identity documentation and widespread government fraud in some of the affected countries. The proposed restrictions are part of a broader executive order aimed at nations with high terrorism threats, visa overstays, or unreliable identity verification systems.

In a national address, Trump emphasized the need for stringent vetting processes, stating, “We cannot allow open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those seeking to enter the United States.” The countries potentially facing new restrictions include several African nations, as well as others like Yemen, Somalia, and Haiti.

The administration has raised concerns about weak identity systems and the availability of citizenship through monetary investment without residency requirements. The memo indicates that countries could mitigate the severity of restrictions by cooperating with U.S. immigration enforcement, such as accepting deported nationals.

While the timeline for implementing these restrictions remains uncertain, the State Department warns that non-compliance could lead to immediate visa limitations or entry bans. The directive has drawn criticism for disproportionately targeting Muslim-majority and African nations, echoing patterns from Trump’s previous travel bans.

The African Union has voiced strong opposition to the proposed measures, urging the U.S. to base decisions on facts and engage in constructive dialogue with the affected nations. The AU expressed concerns about the potential negative impact on diplomatic relations and people-to-people ties, emphasizing the mutual interests shared between Africa and the U.S. in promoting peace and cooperation.