By Onilede Titi Faith
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has begun screening the social media accounts of Nigerian students applying for study visas, a move that has stirred debate among applicants and human rights advocates.
The policy, which aligns with broader U.S. immigration security protocols, requires visa applicants to submit social media handles used in the past five years.
Platforms reviewed include Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Applicants in recent visa interviews in Abuja and Lagos confirmed being asked about their online presence.
According to U.S. officials, the measure is intended to verify identities, assess intentions, and enhance national security.
“Applicants’ online presence is one of several factors considered in assessing eligibility,” a U.S. embassy official stated.
While embassy officials describe the practice as routine, critics argue it could infringe on privacy and discourage free expression.
Education consultants are now advising students to be cautious about their digital footprints.
Nigeria remains one of the top sources of international students in the U.S., and despite concerns, American universities continue to attract thousands of Nigerian applicants each year.
