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US Visa Applicants and Social Media Disclosure: A Risky Overreach with Dire Consequences for Nigerians

US Visa Applicants and Social Media Disclosure: A Risky Overreach with Dire Consequences for Nigerians

By Olufemi Soneye

The United States has recently implemented a sweeping immigration policy requiring nearly all visa applicants to disclose their social media handles and digital histories. Framed as a tool to bolster national security, counter terrorism, and curb cybercrime, the measure may appear reasonable on paper. But for Nigerians and many others from countries with vibrant, digitally active populations the consequences are troubling and far-reaching.

Nigeria’s dynamic online culture is marked by satire, political commentary, and spirited debate. In this context, posts that are humorous or culturally specific may be misunderstood by foreign officials unfamiliar with the nuances of local discourse. What may be a harmless meme or satirical remark in Nigeria could be wrongly interpreted as extremist, subversive, or fraudulent by US immigration authorities.

This does not merely pose a risk to individual visa applicants. It threatens broader societal values such as freedom of expression, cultural authenticity, and civic engagement. It also risks further straining US–Nigeria relations at a time when collaboration and mutual respect are more important than ever.

The US government maintains that social media activity provides valuable insight into a visa applicant’s character, affiliations, and potential risks. In an age where radicalization and misinformation can proliferate online, there is some logic to this argument. However, in practice, it opens the door to arbitrary interpretations, biased judgments, and significant invasions of privacy.

Disturbing cases have already emerged. A Norwegian tourist was recently denied entry into the United States after officials discovered a meme referencing US Vice President J.D. Vance on his phone. In another case, a Nigerian businesswoman with a valid visa was turned away at a US border after immigration officers reviewed her Instagram messages and claimed her online activity contradicted the nature of her visa. These examples illustrate how subjective and potentially discriminatory the enforcement of this policy can be.

Adding to the concern, the US has launched a pilot program requiring visa applicants from select countries to pay a $15,000 bond. The initiative, which began with Malawi and Zambia, reportedly targets nations with high visa overstay rates and could be expanded. It sends a chilling message: that citizens of certain countries are presumed guilty until proven otherwise.

For Nigerians, the implications are especially severe. Privacy is the first casualty. Applicants must now submit their digital footprints including personal conversations, private networks, and online affiliations to a foreign government. Freedom of expression is the next victim. Young Nigerians, who make up the majority of users on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, may begin self-censoring out of fear that political opinions or cultural commentary could jeopardize their chances of traveling or studying abroad.

This policy disproportionately impacts the very demographic that is driving Nigeria’s innovation, creativity, and international reputation. Students, entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals, the most globally engaged Nigerians are now the most vulnerable to misinterpretation and arbitrary visa denials. What constitutes a “red flag” is alarmingly subjective: a meme, a retweet, or a political statement could be enough to trigger rejection, with little recourse for appeal.

There are broader implications for the Nigerian diaspora and global mobility. Social media has long served as a bridge connecting Nigerians abroad with their homeland, facilitating civic dialogue, cultural exchange, and philanthropic engagement. If digital expression becomes a liability, this bridge may weaken, silencing a vital global voice and undermining transnational ties.

Moreover, the policy risks reinforcing damaging stereotypes. Nigerians already contend with international biases linking the country to fraud or instability. A policy that scrutinizes their digital lives under a security lens could deepen mistrust, alienate young professionals, and diminish goodwill toward the United States.

The global repercussions are also concerning. If the US, a global standard-setter in immigration policy, normalizes the collection and evaluation of applicants’ private digital histories, other countries may follow suit. This would set a dangerous precedent, where opportunities for global mobility depend not on merit or intent, but on an algorithmic analysis of social media behavior often devoid of cultural context.

National security is undeniably important. But it must be balanced with fairness, proportionality, and respect for fundamental rights. This policy represents a dangerous overreach one that sacrifices privacy, chills free expression, and penalizes those who should be celebrated for their global engagement.

If the United States is truly committed to fostering partnerships with countries like Nigeria, it must recognize that sustainable security cannot be built on suspicion and surveillance. Instead, it should embrace and empower the voices of Nigeria’s youth, educated, innovative, and globally connected who could be among America’s strongest allies in the decades ahead.

*Soneye is a seasoned media strategist and former Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, known for his sharp political insight, bold journalism, and high-level stakeholder engagement across government, corporate, and international platforms

The post US Visa Applicants and Social Media Disclosure: A Risky Overreach with Dire Consequences for Nigerians appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

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By Olufemi Soneye The United States has recently implemented a sweeping immigration policy requiring nearly all visa applicants to disclose their social media handles and digital histories. Framed as a
The post US Visa Applicants and Social Media Disclosure: A Risky Overreach with Dire Consequences for Nigerians appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

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NCDMB Hosts Book Reading With Ex-PUNCH Editor, Oketola, Author of The Catalyst

NCDMB Hosts Book Reading With Ex-PUNCH Editor, Oketola, Author of The Catalyst

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) held the second edition of its Book Reading Series on Wednesday at the Nigerian Content Tower, Swali, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, featuring veteran journalist and former Editor of The PUNCH, Mr. Dayo Oketola.

Oketola captivated the audience with readings from his new book, The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens, a compelling 352-page exploration of Nigeria’s telecommunications journey, technological transformation, and digital inclusion efforts.

The event drew a diverse crowd of book lovers, students, writers, and industry professionals, who were also treated to spoken word performances that enriched the atmosphere of intellectual and creative engagement.

In his welcome address, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, General Manager of the Corporate Communications Division at the NCDMB, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to educational advancement and capacity development across Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and its linked sectors. He cited the establishment of Centres of Excellence in universities and sponsorship of academic competitions as part of NCDMB’s broader educational strategy.

Oketola’s book blends personal narrative with rigorous industry analysis, tracing Nigeria’s tech evolution from the introduction of GSM in 2001 to the dynamic ecosystem of today. The book documents how bold policy reforms and private sector participation unlocked over $70 billion in investment and created more than 500,000 jobs. 

Through case studies and first-hand accounts, it highlights the transformative role of mobile technology, fintech, and digital infrastructure across sectors such as agriculture, education, and healthcare.

Speaking to journalists after the session, Oketola addressed the book’s critical tone regarding some regulatory agencies, particularly in its examination of the NigComSat-1R, the government-owned communication satellite. He clarified that while his work does critique institutional shortcomings, the reading event was not intended as a platform to cast aspersions on any specific government agency.

“Enough feathers have been ruffled already,” Oketola said. “But the focus of today’s gathering is a literary one, not a political commentary. This isn’t a platform to criticise NigComSat or any agency. That said, journalists must ruffle feathers; it’s part of the job.”

The book also delves into digital inclusion, shedding light on the marginalisation of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and women. It calls for equitable access to technology and greater representation in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

In addressing governance, The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens, explores both the achievements and failures of regulatory frameworks and the broader policy environment. It provides an in-depth analysis of strategic planning, regulatory oversight, and the future of Nigeria’s digital economy, especially in areas such as broadband penetration, infrastructure expansion, and the introduction of 5G technology.

Representing the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Dr. Ezeobi, was accompanied by senior staff, including Mr. Teleola Oyeleke, Supervisor, Media; Mr. Teddy Bai, Supervisor, Government Relations; Mr. Manfred Onisodemuya, Media Officer; and other members of the Board.

The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens is being hailed as a valuable resource for stakeholders in ICT, public policy, academia, and journalism.

With its rich blend of storytelling, data, and social commentary, it is considered a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of technology, governance, and social impact in Nigeria.

The post NCDMB Hosts Book Reading With Ex-PUNCH Editor, Oketola, Author of The Catalyst appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

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The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) held the second edition of its Book Reading Series on Wednesday at the Nigerian Content Tower, Swali, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, featuring veteran
The post NCDMB Hosts Book Reading With Ex-PUNCH Editor, Oketola, Author of The Catalyst appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.