The United States may revoke the tourist and business visas of up to 200,000 foreign nationals who have applied for asylum after entering the country.

The Trump administration is considering the move as part of its wider immigration crackdown. The Associated Press reported the plan after reviewing State Department documents and speaking with two U.S. officials.

If the administration proceeds, the action could become the largest mass visa revocation in U.S. history. The State Department could start notifying affected visa holders in the coming weeks.

Who could lose their visas?

The proposed policy focuses on people who hold B1 or B2 visas and later applied for asylum in the United States.

B1 visas generally cover business travel. B2 visas cover tourism, family visits and medical treatment.

The proposed review would cover B1 and B2 visas issued from 2016 through 2026. U.S. authorities are working to identify visa holders who entered the country as temporary visitors and later filed asylum applications.

State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott confirmed the coordination with the Department of Homeland Security. He did not give a final figure for the number of visas that officials could revoke.

Pigott said officials would handle the reviews on a rolling basis. As a result, the final number could change.

Visa cancellation may not mean immediate deportation

Losing a B1 or B2 visa would not automatically lead to immediate deportation.

U.S. officials told the Associated Press that some people could continue their pending asylum cases under another immigration status. They would, however, lose their classification as business or tourist visitors.

The proposal has also drawn criticism from asylum advocates and could face legal challenges if the administration implements it.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau has criticised people who enter the United States on temporary visas and later seek asylum. He has argued that people should not use asylum claims to avoid normal immigration rules.

Part of wider immigration enforcement

The visa proposal follows a broader increase in U.S. immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump.

The State Department says it has revoked about 175,000 visas over the past 18 months. Those cases involved people convicted or accused of offences such as drunken driving, rape and robbery.

Officials have also cancelled some visas after holders publicly criticised U.S. policies.

The administration has separately pursued restrictions on birth tourism. It has also sought to end birthright citizenship. Courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have blocked those efforts.

Possible impact on Nigerians

The policy could attract attention in Nigeria because many Nigerians travel to the United States for business, tourism, family visits and investment.

Visa changes can also affect people involved in cross-border business. This includes real estate investors, property developers and professionals who work between Nigeria and the United States.

For Nigeria’s housing sector, international mobility can support diaspora investment and business partnerships. Changes to U.S. immigration rules could therefore matter to Nigerians planning property purchases, investments or other commercial activities in the United States.

The issue also highlights the importance of understanding the conditions attached to temporary visas. Visitors who enter the United States must comply with the terms of their immigration status.

US continues to tighten immigration rules

The State Department documents show that the latest review began after immigration authorities shared information about asylum applications filed by current B1 and B2 visa holders.

The administration has also increased efforts to remove migrants to countries other than their countries of origin. A February 2026 report cited by Nairametrics said Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee estimated that the U.S. government had spent more than $40 million to deport about 300 migrants to third countries.

Those transfers involved countries such as Rwanda, Palau, Eswatini, El Salvador and Equatorial Guinea. The report said Rwanda received seven deportees at a cost of about $1.1 million per person.

The proposed visa revocations remain under review. The U.S. government has not confirmed that it will cancel exactly 200,000 visas.

For international travellers, the development signals a stricter approach to visa enforcement. Nigerians and other foreign nationals who plan to travel, invest or conduct business in the United States will need to pay close attention to changes in U.S. immigration rules.

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The Chief Executive Officer of , , has clarified issues surrounding the widely reported $250 million investment linked to the company’s estate development affected by the project.

Speaking with journalists, Okengwu explained that the $250 million figure represents the estimated Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) attracted into Nigeria’s real estate sector through the estate development.

According to her, much of the investment was mobilised from Nigerians in the diaspora and international partners participating in the project.

Diaspora investment in real estate

Okengwu noted that diaspora-driven real estate investments contribute significant inflows to Nigeria’s economy each year, adding that the WINHOMES estate project forms part of that broader investment stream.

She said the company’s ongoing engagement with government authorities relates to compensation for the section of land affected by the alignment of the coastal road project.

The CEO explained that the amount being discussed is tied specifically to the portion of land impacted by the infrastructure development.

Estate development already underway

Okengwu revealed that extensive groundwork had already been completed on the estate site before the coastal road alignment affected part of the project.

According to her, preparatory works carried out included:

• Land clearing and grading
• Internal road layout planning
• Sand filling and embankment construction
• Drainage preparation

She disclosed that more than 30,000 truckloads of sand were deployed to stabilise the land as part of the estate development.

Heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers and payloaders were also mobilised for the project.

Community engagement and infrastructure

The project also involved several early-stage developments, including:

• Construction of an estate gatehouse
• Community engagement initiatives
• Initial structural work for a proposed multi-storey building

Okengwu explained that the estate operates under a developer-led model, where subscribers purchase plots through the company while it oversees the development process.

Commitment to dialogue

The WINHOMES CEO reaffirmed the company’s commitment to transparency and continued engagement with relevant stakeholders as discussions progress.

She expressed optimism that through constructive dialogue, the project can be adjusted in a way that supports both national infrastructure development and private sector investment.

Okengwu added that the company remains focused on protecting investors’ interests while aligning with Nigeria’s broader development goals.

The post Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: WINHOMES CEO Clarifies $250m Investment Claim appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has been officially launched in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, marking a strategic push to strengthen ties with Nigerians in the diaspora and deepen global partnerships critical to Nigeria’s economic and social transformation.

The Atlanta event brought together Nigerian community leaders, professionals, business executives, civic advocates, and diaspora organisations, all united by a shared interest in contributing to Nigeria’s development from abroad.

Organisers described the gathering as a significant step in expanding the Renewed Hope Agenda beyond Nigeria’s borders, positioning the diaspora as a key partner in national growth, policy advocacy, and international engagement.

Diaspora Engagement at the Core

Speaking in a statement, the convener of the programme, Mr. Austine Dafe, said the US launch of the Renewed Hope Agenda was designed to create a structured platform for diaspora participation in investment, knowledge transfer, cultural diplomacy, and national development initiatives.

According to Dafe, the agenda reflects President Tinubu’s broader vision of building an inclusive, competitive, and globally relevant Nigeria.

“We are committed to building a Nigeria that works for every citizen — a nation that inspires confidence, encourages enterprise, and creates opportunities across all sectors,” he said.

He added that Nigerians abroad possess skills, capital, and networks that are essential to accelerating reforms and driving sustainable economic growth at home.

Speakers Highlight Diaspora’s Strategic Role

Several speakers at the event emphasised the growing importance of diaspora engagement in Nigeria’s development journey, noting that Nigerians abroad already play a vital role through remittances, entrepreneurship, innovation, and global advocacy.

They stressed that beyond remittances, diaspora professionals can support policy reform, strengthen institutions, mentor young Nigerians, and attract foreign direct investment into critical sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Participants also noted that Nigeria’s long-term stability and competitiveness depend on effective collaboration between citizens at home and those living abroad.

Tinubu’s Reforms and Global Outlook

The forum highlighted key reforms under President Tinubu’s administration, particularly fiscal and economic measures aimed at stabilising the economy, improving investor confidence, and expanding private-sector participation.

Speakers said the Renewed Hope Agenda reflects a shift toward pragmatic governance, with a focus on economic resilience, job creation, and institutional reform.

According to organisers, the US launch is part of a broader strategy to align Nigeria’s domestic reforms with global best practices while leveraging international partnerships to unlock growth opportunities.

Recognition for State-Level Alignment

During the event, participants commended Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, for what they described as strong alignment with the Renewed Hope vision and his contributions to governance reforms at both state and national levels.

Speakers noted that effective implementation of the agenda requires synergy across federal and state governments, as well as consistent engagement with stakeholders inside and outside Nigeria.

Focus on Security, Youth, and Social Development

The Renewed Hope Agenda’s priorities — including national security, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment — were reaffirmed as central to building a resilient and prosperous nation.

Participants agreed that empowering young people, improving access to quality education and healthcare, and strengthening security are critical to reversing brain drain and encouraging skilled Nigerians abroad to invest and engage more actively with the country.

Call for Unity and Continued Engagement

The Atlanta forum ended with a strong call for unity, collaboration, and sustained civic participation among Nigerians in the diaspora.

Organisers described the Renewed Hope Agenda not merely as a government programme, but as a collective mission requiring the support of citizens, private sector players, and international partners.

In his closing remarks, Dafe announced that Ambassadors of the Renewed Hope Agenda (USA) would be formally inaugurated at a later date to coordinate diaspora-driven initiatives and maintain momentum.

He said the launch in Atlanta represents the beginning of a broader global engagement strategy aimed at ensuring Nigerians abroad have a clear voice and active role in shaping the country’s future.

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Nigeria’s luxury residential property market is expected to maintain steady growth in 2026, driven by strong diaspora inflows, rising wealth concentration, lifestyle-driven demand and a persistent shortage of prime properties, despite ongoing macroeconomic and structural constraints.

Market analysts and industry executives say the high-end segment remains one of the most resilient parts of Nigeria’s real estate ecosystem, largely insulated from the affordability pressures and mortgage limitations weighing down the broader housing market.

While inflation, high construction costs and limited access to long-term financing continue to challenge developers, luxury real estate is increasingly positioned as a store of value, capital hedge and lifestyle asset rather than a consumption-driven purchase.

As currency volatility moderates and investor confidence gradually stabilises, premium properties in key urban centres are attracting buyers focused on wealth preservation, rental income and long-term appreciation.

Diaspora capital anchors luxury demand

Diaspora remittances, estimated at over $20 billion annually, remain a central driver of luxury housing demand. A growing share of this capital is being channelled into high-end residential developments, particularly in Lagos and Abuja, where buyers prioritise security, prestige and asset stability.

For many Nigerians abroad, luxury real estate offers a tangible hedge against global economic uncertainty, rising taxes and tighter housing regulations in Western markets. Premium Nigerian properties are viewed as competitively priced, capable of delivering strong rental yields while offering emotional and cultural ties to home.

Beyond diaspora investors, demand is also sustained by Nigeria’s expanding pool of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), whose wealth is tied to sectors such as energy, finance, technology, telecommunications and international trade. Expatriates working with multinational corporations, diplomatic missions and international organisations further underpin the market through long-term rentals and outright purchases.

Lagos, Abuja dominate prime markets

Lagos continues to lead Nigeria’s luxury real estate landscape, with Ikoyi, Victoria Island and Banana Island retaining their status as the most sought-after addresses. These locations benefit from proximity to commercial hubs, waterfront appeal and relatively superior infrastructure.

Industry estimates suggest that luxury property prices in these prime districts could record moderate annual appreciation of between five and eight per cent in 2026, supported by limited land availability and consistent demand.

Vertical development has become increasingly dominant in Ikoyi, as developers respond to land scarcity by delivering high-rise luxury apartments and mixed-use towers. These developments cater to affluent buyers seeking premium amenities, enhanced security and proximity to business districts.

Abuja remains another major luxury hub, particularly in Maitama, Asokoro and Wuse II, where demand is driven by political office holders, senior public servants, diplomats and corporate executives.

Meanwhile, emerging corridors along the Lekki–Epe axis, including Ibeju-Lekki and parts of Epe, are attracting growing interest from developers and early-stage investors positioning for medium- to long-term capital growth.

Infrastructure projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, the Dangote Refinery, improved road networks and expanding industrial activity have strengthened investor confidence in the corridor’s long-term prospects.

Luxury redefined by lifestyle and innovation

The definition of luxury housing in Nigeria is evolving beyond sheer size and location. Buyers are increasingly prioritising functionality, efficiency and lifestyle integration.

Smart-home systems, energy-efficient designs, concierge services, private gyms, recreational facilities and professionally managed estates are now standard expectations rather than premium extras. Reliable power supply, water systems and integrated security have become baseline requirements.

Mixed-use developments combining residential, retail, leisure and office spaces are gaining traction, reflecting demand for convenience and integrated living. Waterfront apartments and high-end short-let properties are also attracting investors seeking rental income from corporate tenants and visiting diaspora Nigerians.

Globally aligned design trends — including fully furnished interiors, minimal renovation risk, advanced automation and indoor-outdoor living concepts — are increasingly shaping Nigeria’s luxury developments.

Premium property as inflation hedge

Luxury real estate continues to attract investors seeking protection against inflation and currency risks. Market observers note that capital in the high-end segment is highly mobile, often shifting across geographies rather than exiting the property market entirely.

In Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, industry data indicates that over 1,000 luxury apartments are currently under construction, with Lagos accounting for the majority of activity.

Annual rents for mid- to high-end luxury apartments range from ₦25 million to ₦180 million for two- and three-bedroom units, depending on location and amenities. One-bedroom luxury apartments typically sell for ₦90 million to ₦100 million, while two-bedroom units average around ₦250 million.

Three-bedroom duplexes with pools and boys’ quarters often start from ₦1.5 billion, while four-bedroom luxury apartments in Lagos and Abuja are projected to cost between ₦100 million and over ₦2.2 billion, reflecting rising construction costs, taxes and regulatory charges.

Structural constraints remain

Despite positive projections, the outlook is not without risks. High construction costs driven by imported materials, exchange-rate exposure and energy prices continue to squeeze developers’ margins and slow project delivery timelines.

Mortgage penetration remains weak, forcing most luxury developments to rely on equity funding or off-plan sales. Transparency, quality assurance and delivery risk remain concerns, particularly for diaspora buyers who cannot physically monitor projects.

Industry experts warn that mislabelling mid-range properties as “luxury” without meeting international standards could erode buyer confidence over time.

Chief Executive Officer of Northcourt Real Estate, Ayo Ibaru, said the luxury segment operates on a different demand logic from the broader housing market.

“The luxury market sits on a level of its own. Buyers here are driven by quality, not the same affordability pressures affecting the mid-market,” he said.

Former President of FIABCI-Nigeria, Gladstone Opara, added that innovation, smart technology and green design are redefining competition in the segment, as buyers increasingly benchmark Nigerian developments against global standards.

However, he cautioned that high interest rates and limited access to affordable financing remain key bottlenecks, often pushing costs onto end users.

The post Nigeria’s Luxury Real Estate Set to Sustain Growth Momentum in 2026 appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Property owners within the WINHOMES Estate in Lagos have petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing deep concerns over the demolition of parts of the estate linked to the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

In a letter addressed to the President, the Chief Executive Officer of WINHOMES Global Services Ltd., Engr. Stella Okengwu, a U.S. based Nigerian investor criticized the Federal Ministry of Works for its handling of the demolition, warning that the move could significantly undermine investor confidence, particularly among Nigerians in the Diaspora.

Okengwu, whose firm is leading one of Nigeria’s largest Diaspora-backed real estate developments, emphasized that the matter is currently before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos (Suit No: FHC/L/CS/10063/25). She cautioned that any public statements or actions by government officials while the case remains pending risk violating the principle of judicial independence.

Referencing recent remarks by the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, she described the public commentary on the matter as prejudicial and inappropriate, stressing that all parties must respect the legal process and refrain from actions that could be seen as contempt of court.

Established in 2021, the WINHOMES Estate project was conceived as a tourism-driven real estate initiative aimed at attracting investment from Nigerians in the Diaspora. The estate spans 20 hectares in Lagos, holds three valid land titles, and comprises approximately 2,500 fully serviced plots, each valued at around ₦150 million. The total estimated value of the project stands at ₦375 billion (approximately $250 million).

Okengwu noted that the recent realignment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway had affected around 400 plots, valued at over ₦60 billion, with estimated cumulative damages to the estate reaching ₦85 billion.

She also affirmed that WINHOMES Global Services Ltd. remains fully compliant with all regulatory and financial frameworks. The company is certified by the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML), and all funds were transparently sourced through legitimate international remittance platforms.

In her appeal to President Tinubu, Okengwu urged the Federal Government to ensure that due process is followed and that legal proceedings are allowed to run their full course without executive interference. She called for an independent valuation of the affected property to determine adequate compensation for investors, many of whom are Nigerians in the Diaspora.

She added that resolving the dispute in a transparent and lawful manner would reaffirm the administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope agenda and send a strong message to the international investment community that Nigeria remains a secure and reliable destination for long-term investment.

The post WINHOMES Estate Owners Petition President Tinubu Over Demolition appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has urged that ongoing legal disputes surrounding the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project and WinHomes Estate should not be misinterpreted as government hostility toward investors, particularly those from the Nigerian diaspora.

Speaking during a live interview on Arise News on Tuesday, the minister clarified that while litigation involving property demolitions along the highway corridor exists, it does not obstruct the implementation of key national infrastructure initiatives.

“There were and are still cases in court. The first involved 39 property owners whose structures were affected. They were evaluated and compensated, even for informal settlements,” Umahi said. “The president directed us to pay because he wants to alleviate their problems.”

The minister expressed concern that certain media narratives surrounding the disputes could distort public perception and discourage credible foreign investment, especially from Nigerians living abroad.

“When people invoke the diaspora angle in a negative light, it creates unnecessary fear among genuine investors,” Umahi noted. “This government is very friendly with Nigerians in the diaspora, and we will not allow anyone to damage that relationship or the administration’s reputation.”

Umahi also revealed that some diaspora investors who are resident in Nigeria have reached out to seek further clarification on the project’s scope and progress. “They’ve sent letters and want to come to the office. I am more than willing to meet with them and clear any doubts,” he said.

Despite the legal friction, Umahi maintained that the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway remains on schedule and is advancing through multiple phases. “The coastal highway is progressing very well. We are now in session two, and we’ve opened session three and three B, about 65 kilometers in Calabar,” he stated.

The controversy surrounding WinHomes Estate intensified after the company’s diaspora investors raised concerns over demolitions tied to the highway’s alignment. Earlier, Umahi had told reporters that only about four hectares of the estate’s land were impacted by the government’s development plans.

However, the Chief Executive Officer of WinHomes Global Services Ltd., Stella Okengwu, contested the minister’s remarks, insisting that the estate’s total investment exceeds $250 million. She also stressed the importance of upholding legal processes in the dispute.

In response, Umahi questioned the accuracy of the figures being cited. “If truly $250 million was invested, where is the proof? Who paid the money, and through which bank? Nigerians deserve to know,” he said.

The Minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency and to fostering a secure investment climate. He assured stakeholders that the government remains open to dialogue and that legitimate investor concerns will be addressed within the framework of the law.

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