Nigeria and UAE to Address Visa Issues and Strengthen Bilateral Relations

Nigeria and the UAE will meet to resolve visa procurement issues for Nigerians. The discussions stemmed from a meeting between UAE Ambassador Salem Saeed Alshamsi and the Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. Concerns have arisen regarding visa policies as many Nigerians travel to and invest in the UAE. A joint commission is planned to enhance collaboration across several bilateral issues, including renewable energy.

In the near future, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will convene to address visa procurement issues encountered by Nigerians traveling to the UAE. This decision was made during the visit of Salem Saeed Alshamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja.

Currently, Nigerians are facing significant challenges in acquiring UAE visas, particularly tourist visas. During their meeting, the Minister recognized the strong diplomatic relations and strategic partnerships between the two nations, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to this relationship.

The Minister highlighted that Dubai has emerged as a favored destination among Nigerians, with approximately 12,000 Nigerians residing in the UAE, including workers, professionals, and students. In 2015 alone, close to a million Nigerians visited the UAE, spending substantial amounts on tourism and economic activities, indicating a necessity for improved economic collaboration.

Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed concerns regarding the status of UAE visa policies, emphasizing that both government officials and citizens need clarity on these policies, especially as many Nigerians have made significant investments in properties and businesses within the UAE.

She also announced the upcoming joint commission, scheduled to take place in Nigeria following one hosted by the UAE in 2022, to discuss various bilateral issues, such as renewable energy.

In his remarks, Ambassador Alshamsi congratulated the Minister on her appointment and expressed pride in the progress of Nigeria-UAE relations over the past five decades. He assured that he has personally overseen the issuance of visas during his tenure, stating his commitment to easing the challenges faced by Nigerian visa seekers. Additionally, he noted the success in issuing over 700 tourism visas since July 2024 and highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral agreements prior to a presidential visit.

Ambassador Alshamsi reinforced the importance of partnership, asserting that while disagreements may arise, they can be resolved amicably. His commitment to addressing visa-related issues will serve to strengthen the economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE, promoting trade and investment opportunities.

In conclusion, the meeting between Nigeria and the UAE marks a significant step towards resolving the challenges faced by Nigerians in obtaining visas. Both countries acknowledge the importance of their bilateral relations and the potential for increased economic collaboration. The establishment of a joint commission signifies a commitment to ongoing dialogue, aimed at addressing outstanding issues and enhancing mutual interests. Through constructive engagement, both nations are poised to strengthen their partnership further.

Original Source: dailypost.ng