U.S. Revokes Over 80 000 Visas in Broad Security Sweep – Including Some Nigerians
Washington – November 7, 2025
The U.S. Department of State has cancelled approximately 80,000 non-immigrant visas since Donald J. Trump returned to office, officials say.
The sweeping action forms part of a major review of visa-holders allegedly linked to criminal, safety, or national-security-related concerns.
While the precise number of Nigerians affected has not been disclosed, media reports say the revocations include “some Nigerians” among other foreign nationals flagged in the sweep.
According to the State Department breakdown, about 16,000 visas were revoked for driving under the influence (DUI) offences. Roughly 12,000 were revoked for assault. About 8,000 were revoked for theft.
Other visa cancellations reportedly stem from overstays, terrorism- or security-related investigations, and online/social-media behaviour deemed incompatible with visa status.
The Trump administration says the revocations reflect a stricter enforcement approach to visa policy, shifting from simply issuing visas to actively reviewing and revoking them when holders violate terms, commit crimes, or pose threats to U.S. interests.
Officials say that vetting has expanded to include, continuous monitoring of visa-holders’ records and behaviour, social-media screening and online posts, particularly by students or temporary visitors, additional checks for persons involved in crimes or suspected terrorism support abroad or in the U.S.
The move has major implications for international travellers, students, and temporary workers whose visa status can now be revoked retroactively for past behaviour. Immigration advocates warn it may chill lawful travel, study and exchange programmes, while raising concerns about fairness and due process.
For Nigerians and other foreign nationals, the inclusion in this revocation series signals the global reach of U.S. immigration enforcement and the risk of indirect consequences, even if one is outside the U.S. at the time of revocation.
The review and revocation process is ongoing. U.S. consular and immigration officials have indicated they will continue to identify and cancel visas for holders who run afoul of U.S. law or visa conditions.
Experts expect that more non-immigrant visa categories (tourists, students, temporary workers) will come under similar scrutiny going forward.
