The President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, has labeled the recent US travel ban as unjust, particularly for innocent individuals who wish to engage in legitimate business activities in the United States.

Osigwe made these remarks on Wednesday during an interview on ‘Politics Today,’ a program on Channels Television that was monitored by DAILY POST.

He was responding to the US travel restrictions imposed on Nigeria.

According to DAILY POST, United States President Donald Trump has signed a new proclamation that further limits the entry of foreign nationals into the country, introducing partial travel restrictions.

“While I understand America’s stance on preventing illegal immigration and visa overstays, it is unfair to penalize those who simply wish to travel by restricting their access to the US. The United States should strive for a balanced approach,” he stated.

“I am concerned because Trump's actions increasingly suggest that he does not welcome immigrants in the United States. Citing an overstay rate of approximately 7.5% among Nigerians granted visas, which I consider to be a negligible percentage, seems to be an attempt to justify a predetermined position while trying to make it appear reasonable.”

“Such a policy is detrimental. There are individuals who enter lawfully, do not overstay, and do not misuse their visas.”

“Punishing those who wish to travel due to limited access to the US is also unjust. I believe the best course of action is to identify those who have consistently overstayed their visas and find a way to return them to their home countries,” he concluded.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recent statement made by Afam Osigwe regarding the US travel ban?

Afam Osigwe, the President of the Nigeria Bar Association, criticized the US travel ban as unfair to innocent individuals who want to conduct legitimate business in the United States.

What are the implications of the US travel restrictions on Nigeria?

The restrictions limit the entry of foreign nationals into the US and may negatively impact individuals seeking to travel for business or other legitimate reasons.

How does Osigwe suggest addressing the issue of visa overstays?

Osigwe recommends that the US should identify individuals who have overstayed their visas and find ways to return them to their home countries, rather than punishing those who travel lawfully.