In a development that could disrupt educational plans for thousands of international students, the United States has temporarily suspended student visa interviews at multiple embassies and consulates worldwide, including in Nigeria. The move is expected to impact a significant number of prospective students, particularly from African nations with high U.S. academic enrollment rates.
According to an official notice from the U.S. State Department, the suspension comes in response to ongoing administrative backlogs and logistical constraints. While the statement did not specify how long the suspension will last, it confirmed that all scheduled F-1 and M-1 visa interviews are postponed until further notice.
“This pause is a result of operational limitations beyond our control,” the notice read. “We remain committed to resuming full visa services as soon as possible.”
For many Nigerian students, this suspension poses a significant setback. Nigeria consistently ranks among the top African countries sending students to the U.S., with over 17,000 Nigerians enrolled in American institutions during the 2023–2024 academic year, according to Open Doors data.
Prospective student Ifeoma Okonkwo, who was preparing to begin a graduate program in California this fall, expressed deep frustration. “I’ve spent months gathering documents and securing funding,” she said. “Now, everything is on hold, and I don’t know what will happen.”
Education consultants and university officials have also voiced concern over the uncertainty and its potential ripple effects. “This will certainly affect enrollment numbers, particularly for fall 2025,” said Dr. Michael Adewale, a U.S. education advisor in Lagos. “Students may consider deferring or switching to other countries with more predictable processing times.”
Other affected countries reportedly include India, Pakistan, Ghana, and Kenya, though the scale of impact varies by location.
The U.S. government has not ruled out the possibility of virtual interviews or alternative measures, but officials stress that the current priority is clearing the existing visa backlog.
In the meantime, students are advised to monitor embassy websites closely and explore options for deferral or enrollment postponement with their institutions.
source: thenationonlineng.net
