Nobel laureate and Nigerian author Wole Soyinka announced that the United States has revoked his non-immigrant visa, effectively banning him from entering the country. Soyinka, aged 91, disclosed the revocation at a media event in Lagos, revealing that he received official notification from the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos on October 23, 2025. The letter informing him of the visa cancellation cited “additional information” that became available after the visa was issued but did not specify details.
Soyinka, who has been a vocal critic of U.S. policies, especially during the Trump administration, suggested that his outspoken views such as likening former President Trump to “Idi Amin in whiteface” may have influenced the revocation. He has a history of protesting U.S. immigration policies, including famously destroying his green card in 2016 after Trump’s election.
The esteemed writer and playwright, who has taught at U.S. universities for decades, expressed surprise and disappointment over the visa cancellation. He advised those expecting to invite him to events in the U.S. not to waste their time due to his ban. The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has declined to comment on his case.
This development follows broader moves by the U.S. government to tighten visa policies for Nigerians amid changing immigration strategies. Soyinka remains an influential figure in literature and activism despite the travel restrictions now placed upon him.
