The United States Embassy in Nigeria has begun reviewing the social media accounts of Nigerian students applying for study visas, a move that has sparked mixed reactions among applicants and rights advocates.
As part of a broader U.S. immigration policy, visa applicants are now required to provide details of their social media handles used over the past five years. Platforms under scrutiny include Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Several students interviewed at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and Lagos confirmed they were asked questions about their online activities during visa interviews.
U.S. officials say the checks are part of efforts to strengthen national security, verify applicants’ identities, and assess the intent behind their travel.
“Social media screening is just one of several tools used to determine eligibility,” an embassy official said.
While embassy staff describe the process as standard practice, critics argue it raises privacy concerns and could suppress freedom of expression.
Some education consultants are now advising students to carefully manage their digital footprints before applying.
Despite the concerns, the U.S. remains a top destination for Nigerian students, with thousands enrolling in American universities each year.
