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Bimpe Femi-Oyewo, CEO of Edward Consulting, was recently interviewed by The PIE News about the latest US visa reciprocity changes, a development that has left many Nigerian and Ghanaian students uncertain about their academic futures.

The New Rule

The US State Department has restricted Nigerian and Ghanaian students to single-entry, three-month visas. This means students will need to apply for a new visa every time they leave the US, regardless of whether it’s to attend a conference, participate in a study abroad program, or visit family.

What Bimpe Femi-Oyewo Said

In her interview, Bimpe Femi-Oyewo shared why the change is so disruptive:

“The logistics of navigating a single-entry visa under these circumstances are unclear, and many students are understandably anxious about how to proceed.” She went on to describe the policy as “simply not practical” for students in multi-year programs, where global opportunities are an essential part of learning. “It’s a stressful, unpredictable process, and the stakes are high,” she emphasized.

Why It Matters

With over 20,000 Nigerian students and 9,400 Ghanaian students enrolled in the US last year, this change is set to affect thousands. Students could face increased costs, lengthy reapplications, and missed opportunities abroad.

Yet, Bimpe noted that many Nigerian students remain resilient in their ambition:

“The US remains a top destination because it’s still widely seen as the land of opportunity. I’m continually surprised by the number of students who still prioritize the US above all other countries, even with the increasing complexities.”

Final Word

The interview highlights the urgent concerns surrounding US-bound African students. At Edward Consulting, we will continue to advocate for and support students navigating these shifting policies.

👉 Read the full article and see her full insights here

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