A Nigerian hair vendor is speaking out in heartbreak after being denied entry into the United States and deported—allegedly over content posted on her Instagram account.
In a tearful video now circulating widely on social media, the entrepreneur shared that she was detained for 24 hours by U.S. immigration officials after landing with a B1/B2 visa, typically issued for tourism and business visits.
The vendor, whose name has not been publicly confirmed, says she intended to exhibit her products but was ultimately sent back to Nigeria.
“This one hurt so bad,” she cried. “I was detained for like 24 hours… They checked all my Instagram messages, everything. I didn’t even know they had all that access.”
According to her, officials accused her of violating the terms of her visa by using the trip to conduct business beyond what was permitted, citing social media posts and direct messages with customers who planned to meet her in the U.S.
Immigration Crackdowns and Digital Footprints
The incident highlights the increased scrutiny of travelers’ online presence by immigration authorities, especially as the U.S. tightens policies under renewed crackdowns as part of President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda.
Immigration experts note that customs officers are increasingly reviewing public social media activity to determine whether a visitor’s actions align with their visa type.
Economic Impact of U.S. Immigration Policies
This incident adds to a growing list of immigration complications disrupting individuals and small business owners alike—particularly those from African nations seeking to tap into U.S. markets.
Trump’s hardline policies have been especially aggressive this year, with net immigration down by nearly a third, according to Oxford Economics.
Economist Bernard Yaros warns that with fewer newcomers to fill jobs and engage in commerce, the economy may experience slower growth and rising inflation. Sectors like hospitality, caregiving, and niche retail—areas often supported by immigrants—are expected to be hardest hit.
“There will be fewer workers to produce goods and services,” Yaros notes, “putting pressure on wages and long-term economic output.”
A Cautionary Tale for Business Travelers
The vendor’s story serves as a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs using tourist/business visas to attend exhibitions, trade shows, or client meetings.
With heightened surveillance, even promotional Instagram posts can be construed as evidence of unauthorized business activity.
“The U.S. has all your data… They checked everything,” she said, visibly shaken. “God knows I tried.”
The video has prompted empathy and frustration online, particularly among fellow entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of global travel while growing their businesses.
