The news that Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has had his U.S. visa revoked sent shockwaves through both academic and diplomatic circles. During a recent press briefing at Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos, the 90-year-old writer revealed he was informed of the decision via an official letter from the U.S. Consulate.
Here’s everything you need to know about the situation:
1. The U.S. Consulate Revoked His Visa on October 23, 2025
Soyinka received a formal notice from the Non-Immigrant Visa Section of the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, dated October 23, 2025. The letter explained that his B1/B2 visa typically for tourism and business had been revoked under U.S. Department of State regulations after “additional information became available.”
2. Soyinka Revealed the News Himself
Rather than let rumors spread, Soyinka called a press briefing in Lagos to clarify what happened. He told journalists,
“I have no visa; I am banned, obviously, from the United States. And if you want to see me, you know where to find me.”
He emphasized that he had no criminal or immigration offenses and was unaware of any reason behind the U.S. government’s decision.
3. It’s Not Yet a “Permanent Ban”
While many headlines suggest Soyinka has been banned for life, credible reports from Premium Times, The Guardian Nigeria, and PM News indicate only a visa revocation.
There’s been no official declaration of a permanent or indefinite ban by U.S. authorities meaning he could still reapply in the future once the issue is resolved.
4. A Strange Twist: He Ignored a Re-Interview Request
In September 2025, Soyinka reportedly declined an invitation from the U.S. Consulate to attend a visa re-interview. He initially thought the message was a scam or phishing attempt, given the rising number of fake embassy emails. Some speculate this refusal might have triggered the current revocation but this remains unconfirmed.
5. Soyinka Maintains No Hard Feelings
Despite the shock, the Nobel laureate expressed no hostility toward the U.S., stating that his relationship with American diplomats has “always been cordial.”
He even joked that those who wish to meet him should “know where to find him” right at home in Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
For now, Soyinka remains grounded in Nigeria, awaiting further clarification from Washington. While his visa revocation has stirred global curiosity, one thing is clear: the literary icon continues to embody calm resilience proof that no border can limit the reach of his influence.
