Wole Soyinka's Visa Woes: A Nobel Laureate's Struggles with U.S. Policies

Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka's U.S. non-immigrant visa was revoked, requiring him to reapply if he wishes to visit the United States again. The decision follows his 2016 protest against President Trump's election, and comes amidst changes to U.S. visa policies impacting Nigerian travelers.

Nigeria's Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka announced the revocation of his U.S. non-immigrant visa, leaving him barred from visiting the country without reapplication. The celebrated author, known for his fierce criticism of U.S. politics, particularly during President Trump's tenure, is facing significant travel obstacles.

Soyinka, who has participated in teaching roles at prestigious Ivy League universities since the 1990s, received a notification from the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos for physical cancellation of his visa. The letter cited 'additional information' as the basis for this decision, although U.S. officials have not clarified their stance.

This development follows a policy shift by the U.S. Embassy, limiting Nigerian travelers to single-entry, three-month visas, a reduction from the previous five-year, multiple-entry permits. The situation underscores a tightening of U.S. visa regulations affecting Nigerians, igniting further debate on international travel policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)