U.S. Halts Green‑Card and Citizenship Applications for Nigerians and Others

The United States has temporarily stopped processing green‑card and naturalization applications from Nigerians and citizens of several other countries that were recently added to an expanded travel‑ban list. The suspension also affects legal immigrants already in the U.S. who were hoping to adjust their status or become citizens.

U.S. immigration officials say the agency is conducting a broad security review of all individuals flagged under the latest proclamation, which the administration says is aimed at tightening immigration controls. The move follows heightened security concerns after recent incidents in the U.S. capital.

Nigeria joins a growing list of African and Asian nations facing partial or full entry bans. The restrictions cover a significant portion of African countries and reflect a broader effort to tighten vetting procedures.

Critics argue the policy is unfair and could strain diplomatic ties, noting that the rationale overlooks broader security challenges in the region.