By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A Nigerian journalist has shared his experience of travelling to the United States amid stricter immigration policies introduced during President Donald Trump’s second term. The writer travelled from Abuja to Houston on June 10 for a holiday despite concerns over visa restrictions, tougher border checks and reports of consular overreach. He explained why he almost cancelled the trip and how his experience differed from his expectations.
A Journey Filled With Doubt
For years, America ranked among my favourite holiday destinations. However, this trip felt different.
Before travelling, two incidents raised serious concerns.
The first involved Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka. Many believed US authorities revoked his visa because of his criticism of President Trump. Soyinka had compared Trump to former Ugandan dictator Idi Amin.
The second involved Somali FIFA referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan. US authorities revoked his valid visa upon arrival over alleged terrorist links. Artan denied the allegations, while FIFA declined to comment.
Consequently, I questioned whether travelling remained worthwhile.
America No Longer Felt Familiar
The United States once welcomed visitors warmly.
Today, however, many travellers fear stricter immigration policies and increased scrutiny.
I openly criticised several actions of President Trump. Therefore, I wondered whether my opinions would affect my entry.
Would America remain friendly and welcoming? Or had fear replaced openness?
Those questions stayed with me throughout my journey.
Unexpected Welcome at the Border
After flying from Abuja to Frankfurt and then Houston, I approached border control with uncertainty.
Fortunately, my fears proved unfounded.
Apart from customs officers removing a small packet of velvet tamarind from my luggage, my entry remained smooth.
US Customs and Border Protection officers treated me professionally and respectfully.
I also encountered courteous police officers in both Houston and Florida.
Their conduct reminded me that kindness still exists within America.
Taking Extra Precautions
Despite the pleasant experience, I remain cautious.
I decided not to drive during this visit.
Likewise, I never leave my accommodation without carrying my passport.
Those precautions offer peace of mind under current immigration policies.
Visa Rules Have Changed
Obtaining a US visa has become much harder.
Although my five-year visa remains valid for another two years, many new applicants face lengthy delays.
Interview appointments can take several months or even a year.
Furthermore, Nigeria remains among African countries facing partial US travel restrictions.
Many other African countries face even stricter travel bans.
In addition, non-immigrant visas now carry shorter validity periods and stricter vetting requirements.
A Visa Does Not Guarantee Entry
Holding a valid visa no longer guarantees admission into the United States.
Border officers may inspect travellers’ electronic devices and social media accounts.
Reports indicate that thousands of electronic device searches occur every year at US borders.
As a result, many visitors now travel with greater caution.
America Still Holds Special Memories
Despite recent concerns, America still occupies a special place in my heart.
I have travelled to more than 40 countries without overstaying or breaking immigration rules.
For many years, America represented freedom, diversity and opportunity.
Friends like Buddy and Paula Baker embodied the warmth and generosity I admired.
I also enjoyed driving across America’s vast highways and exploring its diverse communities.
Changing Policies, Changing Perceptions
Recent immigration policies have changed how many visitors view America.
The welcoming nation many travellers once knew now appears more cautious and restrictive.
Nevertheless, individual Americans continue to display kindness and professionalism.
My experience proves that government policies do not always reflect the character of ordinary citizens.
Final Thoughts
This America may differ from the one I first discovered years ago.
Still, journalists must continue documenting changing realities wherever they unfold.
As my journalism teacher once joked, reporters would still tell the story even if the world ended.
Perhaps that remains our greatest responsibility.
