According to a report by Vanguard on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Wole Soyinka, Nobel laureate, had taken the step to part ways with his United States residency years ago when he disposed of his Green Card after the election of Donald Trump.
He had stated his intention openly at the time and acted on it shortly after Trump assumed office.
His decision was based on his personal stance on political developments in the US, and it marked a significant moment in his long relationship with the country, where he had lived and worked at various times in his career.
The playwright’s recent comments come following news that his US visa had also been withdrawn.
He addressed the matter during an interview where he explained that the development did not come to him as a surprise.
He indicated that the shift in US policy regarding visas and residency was something he had expected from the early days of the Trump administration.
According to him, the country was already showing signs of taking a stricter approach toward immigration and foreign nationals.
His remarks surfaced at a time when relations between Nigeria and the United States are experiencing renewed strain.
The tension grew after Trump described Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, linking the designation to allegations of persecution and violence against Christians.
The classification has drawn attention to diplomatic discussions between both countries, with political observers watching the situation closely.
In addition to the designation, Trump issued statements warning of strong actions if the Nigerian government failed to address ongoing security challenges.
His comments were shared widely on social media, where they drew attention across different political and cultural circles.
These statements placed further pressure on the already sensitive diplomatic atmosphere between the two nations.
Soyinka has been a vocal figure on global and national political matters for decades, and his views often come from a background of activism and advocacy for human rights.
His long history of commentary on governance and political conduct has made his voice influential in Nigeria and internationally.
The recent development regarding his visa adds another layer to his ongoing relationship with the United States, a country where he has spent considerable time.
The literary icon explained that his earlier decision to give up his Green Card was part of his personal principles and reflected his dissatisfaction with the political direction of the US during that period.
His stance was widely discussed then, as it highlighted how global political events can have personal implications even for individuals with longstanding international connections.
He said: “I have already done it, I have disengaged (from the United States). I have done what I said I would do. View, More,
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