In a clarification of the U.S. government’s recently announced visa restrictions, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills said on Sunday that the policy includes exemptions for religious leaders travelling to the United States for legitimate religious work, including clergy such as pastors, imams and traditional spiritual figures like babaláwos. Mills made the remarks during a news conference in Abuja while addressing journalists alongside members of a visiting U.S. Congressional delegation.

The visa changes, introduced through a presidential proclamation set to take effect on January 1, 2026, are part of broader efforts by the U.S. government to strengthen national security, improve vetting procedures, and enhance information sharing in the visa process, the ambassador explained. He temphasised that the measures are not targeted at Nigerians as a people, but are designed to address specific procedural concerns in immigration screening.

“The focus of the visa review is on ensuring proper vetting and credible information in the visa process, not on penalising Nigerians,” Mills said, noting that the proclamation clearly outlines the visa categories that may be affected and the exemptions provided.

Among the exemptions listed by the ambassador are holders of official and diplomatic passports, as well as individuals travelling for religious purposes or assignments, ensuring that faith-based travel and engagements are not disrupted by the restrictions.

Mills urged prospective visa applicants and members of the public to consult the official website of the U.S. Embassy for detailed information on the proclamation, affected visa categories and available exemptions, and to use the designated embassy communication channels for specific enquiries.

Representative Bill Huizenga, leader of the U.S. Congressional delegation, reiterated that visa reviews and restrictions are routine tools used to encourage compliance and cooperation from partner countries, rather than punitive actions against citizens, and are regularly applied in various parts of the world.

The clarification comes amid wider reporting that the Trump administration has expanded travel and visa restrictions affecting numerous countries, citing national security and vetting concerns.

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In a historic move celebrating cultural diversity and heritage, the U.S. state of North Carolina has officially proclaimed June 14, 2025, as Igbo Day, honoring the rich contributions of the Igbo people from Nigeria’s southeast region to the state’s cultural, civic, and economic life.

Governor Josh Stein issued the proclamation on June 12, via the state government’s official platform, recognizing the over five decades of vibrant presence and impactful contributions of the Igbo community in North Carolina.

“Igbos in our state have excelled in diverse fields including education, medicine, law, entrepreneurship, technology, and public service at both state and federal levels,” Governor Stein stated. “Through their resilience and dedication, the Igbo people have helped shape a more dynamic and inclusive North Carolina.”

The Governor praised the community’s commitment to cultural preservation, civic participation, and charitable service. He highlighted the Igbo community’s involvement in initiatives such as highway adoption projects, food drives, support for women’s shelters and hospitals, and participation in local cultural festivals, where they showcase traditional music, dance, and heritage.

“The Igbo community’s collective vision,” Stein added, “is to be a thriving cultural presence that not only celebrates their heritage but also fosters unity, empowerment, and pride among future generations. Their efforts are deeply rooted in ensuring the sustainability and visibility of Igbo culture for years to come.”

The proclamation also recognized the formation of the Igbo Day Festival Organisation in 2022, a nonprofit dedicated to educating North Carolinians on Igbo traditions, arts, music, and values. The group successfully hosted its first Igbo Day Festival in July 2022, drawing families and cultural enthusiasts from across the state. In his concluding remarks, Governor Stein declared:

“Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June 14, 2025, as ‘Igbo Day’ in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.” With this move, North Carolina joins Minnesota, which officially designated August 13, 2022, as Igbo Day—further strengthening the recognition of the Igbo diaspora’s legacy in the United States.

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