As Donald Trump secures a second term as president of the United States, African leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, have expressed optimism about the potential for stronger economic ties between the United States and the continent.

However, his return to power has sparked concerns among Nigerians considering studying, working or immigrating to the United States due to the likely reinstatement of strict immigration policies that could impact student visas, travel restrictions and flow of funds.

Immigration restrictions and visa backlogs

During its first term, the Trump administration imposed travel bans on Nigeria and other countries, citing national security concerns.

This policy has led to significant delays in visa processing for Nigerians, including students, professionals and families.

Olumide Ohunayo, secretary general of the Aviation Safety Roundtable Initiative (ART), said Trump’s return to power could lead to a resurgence of his previous immigration policies, which led to significant delays in visa processing.

He noted that the backlog from Trump’s first term continues to affect US embassies, with applicants currently facing waits of two to three years for an interview unless they are civil servants or diplomats. .

Ohunayo warned that if these policies were reinstated in January, the backlog could worsen further.

“If you recall, four years ago, Trump’s statement on immigration policy triggered the backlog that the U.S. Embassy still faces today. In other words, if you have to apply for a visa now, you may not have access to an interview for the next two or three years, unless you become a government official or diplomat.

“And this backlog in its policy will now be reintroduced from January; which will now prolong the delay,” Ohunayo said.

He also noted that this could lead to frustration among applicants, including those who won the green card lottery but now face additional regulations.

“Many may lose interest or be discouraged by the additional obstacles,” he said.

Ohunayo stressed that these policy changes could have serious implications for both immigration and education in the United States, as obtaining a visa continues to take more than two years.

If Trump reinstates these travel restrictions, there are concerns it could limit the ability of Nigerians to study or work in the United States, frustrating many potential applicants who might seek alternatives in other countries.

“Individuals who won the green card lottery could also be subject to additional regulations. This could discourage many, or even make them lose interest altogether,” Ohunayo said.

Impact on Nigerian Students

Despite concerns about Trump’s return to power, some experts say the impact on students may not be as severe.

Aviation expert Bernard Bankole argued that Trump’s policies will likely focus on illegal immigration rather than students coming to the United States for education.

“As long as students pay their tuition fees and are not involved in illegal activities, they should not worry,” Bankole said.

Bankole also noted that the Trump administration, like its first term, could prioritize protecting the interests of American citizens.

He believes that legitimate students and professionals wishing to study or do business in the United States should not fear being targeted.

“Trump is focused on protecting America’s interests, and as long as students follow the rules, everything will be fine,” he said.

He further argued that while Trump may not be a perfect figure, he is seen as someone who will fight for the country’s economic interests. “Life is a matter of perception” » said Bankole.

“People see Trump as someone who is bold and willing to protect U.S. interests, which could help the economy. »

Bankole also addressed concerns about race, pointing out that Trump’s team includes a wide range of people, including blacks and Hispanics, suggesting that not all policies are motivated by racism.

“The press needs to calm down and allow us to see what he can do,” he said, noting that Trump’s potential economic policies could affect countries around the world, including Nigeria.

Bankole stressed that Trump’s immigration policy will likely remain focused on illegal immigration and not students.

“I don’t think there will be any significant impact on students,” he said.

“As long as they go to school and follow the rules, they shouldn’t be affected.”

He concluded by saying that the direction of the U.S. economy under Trump could have broader global effects, but the focus should remain on substance, not sentiment.

Economic consequences for Nigeria

Beyond education, Trump’s return could affect Nigeria’s economy, particularly through remittance flows.

• Nigerians living abroad send over $20 billion in remittances each year, which play a crucial role in the country’s foreign exchange reserves. A reduction in the number of Nigerians able to visit the United States or send money home due to travel restrictions could impact this important financial flow.
• A reduction in remittances would further strain Nigeria’s economy, which is already struggling with a shortage of foreign exchange.

This could reduce domestic consumption and put further pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves.

The broader impact on US-Nigeria relations

• Although there are concerns about the potential return of Trump’s restrictive policies, some believe that Trump’s presidency could have a broader positive impact on the global economy.
• Bankole stressed that the United States remains a major economic force and any positive economic changes in America would indirectly benefit countries like Nigeria.

“Life is about perception,” Bankole said. “Trump believes in protecting American interests, and if that leads to a stronger American economy, it could have positive ripples around the world.”

• He also stressed that despite the challenges, Nigeria should focus on economic growth rather than sentiments towards US politics.

Bankole also said that “Life is not just about feelings, feelings will not put food on the table. Biden was there for four years, the question is: what happened to their economy? What was the impact on Nigeria? If there had been an impact in Nigeria, maybe I should have cried about it now. But what was the impact? Zero impact. And we’re talking about Trump here.

“If Trump wants to make things work for Americans and that indirectly impacts us, fine. Elections are not just about feelings.”

• Although Trump’s second term could lead to a more difficult immigration environment for Nigerians, the full impact on student mobility and economic relations will depend on how his policies evolve and how Nigerians respond. will adapt to new challenges.

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