Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has sharply criticised proposed U.S. visa restrictions targeting West African nations, warning the move could cripple regional trade, diplomacy, and development.
Speaking at the 54th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council in Abuja on Wednesday, Tuggar said the visa restrictions—which may affect all ECOWAS countries—would be a serious blow to U.S.-Africa relations.
“It would be most unfortunate if it comes to pass,” he said. “We are a region full of opportunities and open for business. But these visa policies act as non-tariff barriers to progress.”
Tuggar emphasised that West Africa holds valuable resources, including rare earth elements like samarium found in Nigeria’s Bauchi State, that are vital for global supply chains.
He called the proposed restrictions both “diplomatically counterproductive” and “an economic setback”.
He urged the United States to reconsider, highlighting ECOWAS’s readiness to form global partnerships—particularly with nations that respect mutual needs and allow free movement for government officials, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.
“The only question is with whom? We are open to deals for our prosperity,” he added. “Who’s willing to seize the opportunity and allow smooth travel to close those deals?
Reports indicate the U.S. is weighing new travel bans on several African countries, including Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Liberia. A leaked memo cited inadequate civil records, poor cooperation with U.S. authorities, and identity verification concerns as reasons for the move. The affected countries reportedly have 60 days to comply with new State Department requirements.
