OIS Services (OIS) has denied claims that it has been disengaged by the Nigerian government as the country’s visa service provider in the United States.
The response comes after the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced on Thursday that it had ended its partnership with OIS and directed travellers in the US seeking Nigerian visas to submit their applications directly through the Nigerian Embassy and consulates.
The NIS said the change took immediate effect but did not provide a reason for the decision.
However, in a statement issued by its Account Executive, Ellie Brockbank, OIS described reports that it had been removed as Nigeria’s visa service provider as inaccurate.
According to the company, the issue stems from an ongoing administrative process involving the recognition of private firms that support visa processing and consular services on behalf of foreign missions under applicable US government procedures.
OIS explained that visa application submissions and biometric services through its centres have only been temporarily suspended while the process is completed.
The company said it remains committed to supporting the Nigerian government and is working with the relevant authorities to restore services as soon as the administrative process is concluded.
OIS also appealed to visa applicants for patience as efforts continue to resolve the situation.
