Open Letter to President Biden on Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery – Removing Restrictions on Nigerians

by Francis John, Executive Director HOPe Africa

President Joseph R. Biden Jr.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear President Biden,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you as Francis John, the Executive Director of HOPe Africa, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities in Africa through education and various humanitarian initiatives. I would like to express a matter of great importance and concern, which pertains to the National Visa Lottery program.

The National Visa Lottery, also known as the Diversity Visa (DV) program, has played a crucial role in promoting diversity and cultural exchange in the United States for many years. It has provided countless individuals from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue the American dream and contribute to the rich tapestry of your nation. It is with this background that I respectfully request your consideration of Nigeria’s eligibility for participation in the DV program.

Nigeria, with its significant population and diverse cultural heritage, is home to a multitude of talented and ambitious individuals who aspire to seek better opportunities in the United States. Unfortunately,
Nigeria was recently excluded from the list of eligible countries for the DV program due to visa issuance numbers. This exclusion has been a source of disappointment and concern for many Nigerians who see the DV program as a pathway to a brighter future.

HOPe Africa is deeply committed to supporting education and economic empowerment in Nigeria, and we have witnessed firsthand the potential and aspirations of the Nigerian people. We believe that reconsidering Nigeria’s eligibility for the National Visa Lottery would not only benefit individuals seeking a new life in the United States but also contribute to the cultural diversity and economic growth of your great nation.

With the DV lottery program, the United States has the opportunity to continue leading and taking advantage of the smart and upcoming Nigerians who are currently underutilized and languishing, eager to participate in the global advancement of the world’s superpower. I would like to inform you that a similar letter has been forwarded to Congress for reconsideration, facilitated through our congressman, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver Representative for Missouri’s 5th District. We are committed to pursuing every available avenue to advocate for this cause, which has significant implications for both the United States and Nigeria.

As an additional note, Francis John, the Executive Director of HOPe Africa, has achieved the prestigious Gold President’s Volunteer Service Award, which underscores our commitment to humanitarian efforts and community service. I understand the complexities and challenges involved in immigration policy, but I firmly believe that extending the opportunity to Nigeria would align with your administration’s values of inclusivity and diversity. I urge you to consider this request and work toward making the National Visa Lottery program accessible to Nigerians once again.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I am hopeful that your leadership will continue to champion the ideals of diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunity that the United States stands for.

Sincerely,

Francis John

HOPe Africa Executive Director