Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
ABUJA, Nigeria — Airlines operating international routes out of Nigeria are reporting a noticeable decline in passenger traffic following the implementation of stricter United States (U.S.) visa sanctions that have significantly curtailed the number of Nigerians eligible to travel to North America. The development comes as travel demand weakens on key long-haul corridors and industry stakeholders express concern over the broader impact on international air travel from Nigerian airports.
According to multiple aviation industry reports and travel agents, flights departing Nigeria with connections to the U.S. and other major hubs are seeing lower load factors and reduced bookings, particularly on routes historically used by Nigerian travellers connecting onward to North America, Europe and other markets. Although Nigeria does not currently host direct flights to the United States, carriers such as United Airlines and Delta Air Lines operate regular services into Nigerian airports, and many passengers transit through Europe and the Middle East en route to U.S. destinations.
Industry observers trace the downturn to new U.S. visa policies that took effect in early January 2026, including a partial suspension of visa issuance for Nigerians and expanded restrictions on immigrant visa processing for Nigerian nationals. These measures have dampened appetite for travel as many Nigerians postpone or cancel long-haul trips due to uncertainty around visa approvals.
“The impact cuts across all airlines operating from Nigeria,” said a travel industry source who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Flights that once left with packed cabins — especially on UK and Europe connections used by U.S.–bound travellers — are now departing with reduced passenger loads.”
Travel agents confirm a rise in ticket cancellations and refunds, with some customers opting not to purchase air tickets until there is clarity on visa issuance and entry regulations. Anecdotes from the sector describe instances where passengers with previously issued visas were refused boarding or denied interviews, compounding travellers’ reluctance to book international journeys.
The ripple effects are being felt beyond the U.S. linkage. Routes to major transit hubs such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Dubai, Turkey and other European and Middle Eastern destinations have also seen softer demand, as reduced Nigerian traffic to and through these points affects connecting flights.
The aviation industry says the situation could prompt carriers to reassess capacity, frequency and network strategies on affected routes. Lower passenger demand typically erodes profitability for long-haul flights with high operational costs, and some airlines may be compelled to deploy smaller aircraft, adjust schedules, or pursue promotional campaigns to stimulate travel.
Officials within Nigeria’s travel ecosystem say the downturn underscores how immigration and visa policies in one destination can reshape international travel flows globally, especially when they affect large outbound markets such as Nigeria’s. The country remains one of Africa’s most active sources of international travellers, with significant outbound traffic for business, education and family visits, and the sudden tightening of access has generated widespread uncertainty.
While airlines and travel agencies are closely monitoring developments, they are also exploring ways to diversify focus toward regional and intra-African travel, where visa barriers are generally lower and demand remains comparatively resilient. Industry experts say such diversification could help cushion the impact of reduced long-haul demand and sustain passenger volumes amid evolving travel restrictions.
As stakeholders await potential diplomatic engagement or policy adjustments, the trend highlights the interconnected nature of aviation markets and Nigeria’s sensitivity to external visa regimes — with implications for airline revenue, airport operations, and related tourism and business sectors tied to international travel.
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