Abuja: The U.S. Government has announced the revocation of more than 100,000 visas during the past year, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s second term in office. This move, announced by the U.S. State Department, marks a significant step in the administration’s campaign against foreign nationals with criminal records or legal violations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the U.S. State Department released a statement on its official X handle detailing the revocations, which include approximately 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized work permits. The State Department emphasized its commitment to protecting American citizens and maintaining national sovereignty, with a focus on deporting individuals deemed a threat to public safety.
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott highlighted that many of the revoked visas were linked to crimes such as assault and drunk driving. He also noted that the visa revocations are part of a larger campaign involving mass deportations, supported by an increased deployment of federal agents.
Further, the Trump administration has intensified its visa vetting process, including the screening of social media activity for potential visitors. This move aligns with President Trump’s broader anti-migrant platform, which has been a cornerstone of his second-term agenda since taking office on January 20, 2025.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Department of Homeland Security has deported over 605,000 individuals under the Trump administration, with an additional 2.5 million people opting to leave voluntarily. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the revocation of visas from students involved in protests against Israel, as part of this wider policy initiative.