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The United States government has permanently revoked the non-immigrant visa of Nigerian Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, according to statements made by the 91-year-old writer during a media parley in Lagos. Reuters+2The Guardian Nigeria+2
Soyinka revealed that he received an official letter from the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos on October 23, 2025, instructing him to surrender his passport so the visa can be physically cancelled. The letter cited that “additional information became available” after the visa was issued as the basis for the revocation. Arise News+4Reuters+4The Guardian Nigeria+4
He confirmed to journalists that his B1/B2 visa—issued April 2, 2024—has been invalidated, and that he is now effectively banned from entering the United States. The Guardian Nigeria+2Reuters+2 Asked whether he might reapply, he responded that he will not pursue another visa. Reuters+2Newsmakers+2
Soyinka expressed shock at the revocation, stating he is not aware of any wrongdoing that could justify the action. “I have no criminal record, felony, or misdemeanour … I’m still looking into my past history,” he said. Peoples Gazette Nigeria+2The Guardian Nigeria+2 He added that among his considerations is whether his prior public stands—particularly his vocal criticism of U.S. policies under former President Donald Trump—may have influenced the decision. The Guardian Nigeria+2The Will News+2
He noted that earlier in September, the U.S. Consulate invited him to a visa re-interview, which he declined, reasoning that the letter appeared suspicious or even possibly generated by scammers. The Guardian Nigeria+2Newsmakers+2 That refusal, he indicated, may have factored into the revocation decision. The Guardian Nigeria+1
Soyinka emphasized that despite the ban, he holds no personal animosity toward the American public. He pledged to continue his work as a writer, intellectual, and voice against injustice and discrimination. The Will News+2Newsmakers+2 He also reaffirmed his openness to hosting Americans in Nigeria for legitimate engagements. The Will News+1
Observers note that this development comes amid broader changes in U.S. visa policy toward Nigerians. In July 2025, the U.S. Embassy stated that the maximum validity for non-immigrant visas for Nigerians would be reduced from five years multiple entry to single entry for three months. Reuters+2The Guardian Nigeria+2 As of now, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has not issued an independent statement on Soyinka’s visa revocation. Reuters
The decision has triggered widespread public discourse in Nigeria and abroad, with many viewing the action as politically motivated or punitive, especially given Soyinka’s long record of outspoken criticism of government policies in both Nigeria and globally.
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