The Trump administration is reportedly evaluating the inclusion of Nigeria and over 30 other nations in a new round of U.S. travel restrictions, according to an internal memo obtained by The Washington Post.
The document, said to be signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, outlines that the countries listed must comply with newly introduced — but undisclosed — U.S. immigration and security protocols within 60 days or risk facing visa restrictions or outright travel bans.
Among the 36 countries named are 25 African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Cameroon. Also on the list are countries from other regions such as Syria, Cambodia, Tonga, Bhutan, Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda.
The White House has yet to release an official statement regarding the development. However, the memo reportedly states that each country must submit a preliminary compliance plan by Wednesday to demonstrate willingness to meet the new standards.
This move marks a renewed effort by the Trump administration to tighten immigration measures under its expanded national security agenda. It follows a similar proposal in March, which initially considered 43 countries, though Nigeria was excluded at the time.
According to the memo, countries have been grouped into three categories:
Red: Complete entry bans
Orange: Significant visa issuance restrictions
Yellow: Nations granted a 60-day compliance window
This policy push builds on an executive order signed in June, which barred nationals from 12 countries — including Sudan, Yemen, Libya, Iran, and Afghanistan — from entering the U.S.
Since the start of his second term, President Trump has intensified immigration enforcement through increased deportations and stringent vetting processes. While U.S. officials cite national security concerns as the rationale, critics argue the measures disproportionately target developing nations, especially in Africa, and could strain longstanding diplomatic relationships.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and a major economic player on the continent, has yet to issue an official response. However, analysts warn that any imposed restriction could affect U.S.–Nigeria relations, bilateral trade, and the sizable Nigerian diaspora living and working in the United States.
Observers say the policy, if enacted, may trigger broader geopolitical and economic repercussions, particularly in regions that have historically maintained strong ties with Washington.
