Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has strongly criticised proposed U.S. visa restrictions targeting West African nations, warning that the policy could severely disrupt trade, diplomacy, and regional development.

Speaking during the opening of the 54th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the Ministerial Level in Abuja on Wednesday, Tuggar expressed concern that the restrictions—reportedly affecting all ECOWAS member states—could diminish the U.S strategic influence in a region rich in economic and security potential.

“It would be most unfortunate if it comes to pass,” Tuggar stated.

“We are a region of opportunities ready to do deals. But visa restrictions are non-tariff barriers to those deals.”

He further described the move as both economically shortsighted and diplomatically damaging, pointing out that ECOWAS nations are home to critical minerals essential to the global economy.

“We possess critical minerals and rare earths like Samarium from Monazite, found in my home state of Bauchi,” Tuggar said. “We in this part of the world have been participants in international trade even before the modern state system.”

Tuggar called on Washington to reconsider its stance and embrace a partnership model rooted in mutual benefit. He emphasized that ECOWAS is open for business but won’t wait indefinitely.

“The opportunity is there for the U.S. to partner with us on shared prosperity,” he added. “The real question is: who’s willing to take it? We welcome partners who enable smooth engagement, including the free movement of officials, entrepreneurs, and experts who close the deals that matter.”

The proposed visa restrictions reportedly stem from concerns outlined in a U.S. State Department memo, which cites poor civil documentation, weak identity verification, and limited cooperation with U.S. immigration processes.

Countries mentioned include Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Liberia, all expected to meet updated requirements within 60 days or face travel bans.