Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working with the UAE to resolve visa issues for Nigerians. Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted challenges in obtaining tourism visas despite warm diplomatic relations. Approximately 12,000 Nigerians reside in the UAE, and a significant number visited in 2015, contributing to the economy. The UAE has assured commitment to better facilitate these visa processes, and both nations are set to strengthen their bilateral ties further through upcoming agreements.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria has announced a collaborative effort with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to address visa procurement issues for Nigerians wishing to travel to the UAE. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, highlighted these efforts following a meeting with the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Salem Alshamsi, emphasizing the difficulties Nigerians have encountered in obtaining tourism visas despite the cordial diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu reported that approximately 12,000 Nigerians reside in the UAE, engaging in various roles from unskilled labor to professional positions and studies. In 2015, nearly one million Nigerians visited the UAE, spending an estimated $100-$150 million on visas alone and over $1 billion on shopping, education, tourism, and related expenditures. The minister underscored the necessity for a more balanced economic relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.
Concerns about visa statuses were raised, noting that even distinguished Nigerian government officials had voiced their worries. Additionally, Odumegwu-Ojukwu mentioned the expected joint commission meeting between both nations, which aims to foster discussions on several bilateral issues, including energy. She expressed gratitude to the UAE for their support through donations of relief materials and vaccines.
Ambassador Alshamsi acknowledged the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, reporting that over the past year and a half, numerous visas have been issued to both government and private entities, managed by a designated agent. He assured that the UAE is committed to resolving the visa concerns faced by Nigerians and enhancing economic collaboration, with over 700 tourism visas issued since July 2024 without any rejections.
Looking ahead, Alshamsi indicated that a significant agreement is anticipated to be signed before the Nigerian president’s visit to the UAE in the second quarter of 2025, further strengthening the bilateral ties that have flourished for 50 years.
This initiative aims to not only streamline visa processing for Nigerians but also optimize the economic partnership between the two countries, ensuring that future interactions are mutually beneficial.
In conclusion, the planned collaboration between Nigeria and the UAE represents a vital step towards enhancing the visa process for Nigerians traveling to the UAE. The discussions led by Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Ambassador Alshamsi reflect a commitment to addressing visa procurement challenges and strengthening bilateral economic relations. With strategic meetings planned for the future, both nations are poised to cultivate a robust partnership, ensuring benefits for their citizens and improving diplomatic ties.
Original Source: nannews.ng
