Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has called on the United States to reconsider a proposed visa policy that could limit entry for citizens of all ECOWAS member states, warning that such measures could hinder economic growth and strategic partnerships in West Africa.
Speaking at the 54th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council held in Abuja on Wednesday, Tuggar described the reported visa restrictions as non-tariff barriers that could obstruct trade deals, discourage diplomatic engagement, and restrict access to critical global opportunities for the region.
“If implemented, this would be an unfortunate setback,” Tuggar said. “Our region holds enormous economic potential, and we are eager to engage in global trade and investment. However, restrictions on mobility disrupt the flow of deals and collaboration.”
Highlighting ECOWAS’s resource wealth, Tuggar emphasized that the region is not only rich in human capital but also home to strategic minerals, including rare earth elements like samarium, found in Nigeria’s Bauchi State.
“West Africa is open for business,” he said. “The question is, who is ready to seize the opportunities? Barriers like visa limitations send the wrong signal.”
The minister urged the U.S. to adopt a more constructive approach that facilitates cross-border dialogue, innovation, and entrepreneurship, especially as ECOWAS countries increasingly look to diversify partnerships in energy, infrastructure, and technology.
“West Africa can be a strategic energy and trade partner. We seek collaboration based on mutual needs, and if the U.S. closes its doors, others will walk through ours,” he added.
While the U.S. administration has yet to formally confirm the full list of countries affected, reports suggest the proposed restrictions would apply to over two dozen African nations. These include Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and other key regional players. Concerns cited include gaps in civil documentation systems and administrative shortcomings.
Tuggar concluded by calling for meaningful dialogue between ECOWAS and Washington to resolve the issue, stating:
“We are committed to fostering prosperity and peace. Visa barriers will only delay progress. Let’s build bridges, not borders.”
