The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has warned Nigerians against misusing entry visas granted by the United States of America (USA) through activities that are inconsistent with the purpose of travel or the visa classification.
The National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, issued the warning in a statement on Tuesday, explaining that security vetting for visa applicants does not end upon entry into the United States.
“U.S. authorities will continuously monitor the activities of visa holders, and visas can be revoked if holders are found to have violated US immigration protocols, import/export guidelines and other laws.
“Furthermore, Nigerians travelling to the US are also reminded to declare at the point of exit or entry excess cash above the minimum threshold of 10,000 US dollars or its equivalent and ensure that prohibited items are not included in their baggage,” AC Maiwada stated.
He encouraged travellers to be law-abiding citizens and conduct themselves properly both within and outside Nigeria.
The spokesperson also emphasised that individuals intending to travel to the United States should be aware that committing fraud in any jurisdiction will lead to legal consequences under both U.S. and Nigerian laws.
He further disclosed that the Service is working with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that will deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for their lawful business endeavours.
