By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
Lagos, Nigeria — Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has announced that the United States government has revoked his B1/B2 visa, following a formal notification delivered to him by the U.S. Consulate in Lagos. The development was disclosed during a media interaction at Freedom Park, Lagos, themed “Unending Saga: Idi Amin in Whiteface!”
According to Prof. Soyinka, he received the revocation notice dated Thursday, October 23, 2025, which directed him to submit his passport for physical cancellation of the visa. The notice reportedly stated that “additional information became available” after the visa was issued, referencing provisions under U.S. visa regulations for revocation.
Soyinka, 91, read portions of the letter aloud, confirming his full identity details, visa classification (B1/B2), and prior issuance date. He emphasized that he holds no personal animosity toward Americans, noting that he has hosted countless U.S. scholars and guests at his home in Abeokuta over the years.
However, he said the action appears connected to his longstanding and vocal criticism of U.S. domestic and foreign policy, especially during periods of politically charged discourse regarding global democracy and authoritarian tendencies. He recalled that he had earlier discarded his U.S. Green Card in 2016 as a symbolic protest following the U.S. presidential election.
Despite the revocation, Soyinka maintained a calm tone, stating:
“There is no bitterness. I remain a global citizen. I will continue to speak against racism, oppression, and policies that undermine human dignity — whether in Nigeria, the United States, or anywhere else.”
Status of U.S. Government Response
As of the time of this report, the U.S. Embassy has not issued a public statement clarifying whether the visa revocation is temporary or permanent. U.S. visa regulations allow revocation at any time, with reasons not always disclosed to the public.
Context
Soyinka had recently declined a consulate invitation for a visa re-interview, describing it as an attempt to subject him to a process he considered unnecessary. The current revocation is understood to follow that earlier exchange.
What Happens Next
Whether the revocation is appealable remains unclear pending:
- An official statement from the U.S. Embassy
- Possible diplomatic clarifications
- Decisions by Soyinka regarding whether to seek reinstatement
For now, Prof. Wole Soyinka remains unable to travel to the United States until further notice.
— Newspot Nigeria
