Nigeria and UAE Collaborate to Address Visa Challenges for Travelers

Nigeria and the UAE will meet to address visa procurement issues for Nigerians. The decision follows a visit by UAE Ambassador Salem Saeed Alshamsi to Nigerian Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. Concerns about one-sided economic relations and potential changes to visa policies have been raised. Plans for a joint commission aim to enhance collaboration and resolve outstanding memorandums.

In the upcoming days, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will convene to address the challenges Nigerians face in acquiring visas, particularly for tourism. This decision was made during a visit by UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Alshamsi, to Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja.

Nigerians have recently encountered significant hurdles when applying for UAE visas. The minister emphasized the positive diplomatic ties and strategic partnerships both nations have maintained, citing that Nigeria has consistently upheld its commitment to this relationship. Additionally, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu pointed out that Dubai has emerged as a prime travel destination for many Nigerians.

Currently, approximately 12,000 Nigerians reside in the UAE, encompassing unskilled workers, professionals, and students. Notably, in 2015, nearly one million Nigerians visited the UAE, contributing significantly to the economy by spending an estimated $1 billion, particularly on shopping and related activities, excluding expenditures on goods and schooling. This imbalance in economic relations suggests the need for enhanced collaboration.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu raised concerns regarding the current visa status for UAE, reporting anxiety among Nigerian officials about potential changes to the visa policy. She noted that many Nigerians have heavily invested in UAE properties and tourism, underscoring the importance of clear communication regarding visa regulations.

Furthermore, the minister announced plans for another joint commission between Nigeria and the UAE, building on discussions held in 2022. This meeting aims to address several bilateral matters, including renewable energy initiatives, and to resolve outstanding Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs). She expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of this joint commission.

The minister also expressed gratitude to the UAE for its recent contributions of relief materials for flood victims in Nigeria and vaccines for chickenpox patients, which support the nation’s healthcare institutions. Ambassador Alshamsi praised the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, asserting his commitment to facilitating easier visa access for Nigerians and fostering economic partnerships.

He reported issuing 700 tourism visas since his arrival and reaffirmed his dedication to resolving visa-related challenges. Additionally, he expressed the intention to finalize several new agreements ahead of an anticipated visit from the UAE President to Nigeria.

Ambassador Alshamsi concluded by highlighting the importance of collaboration, stating that disputes can arise but are not personal. “We want you to see us as part of your team, we are partners.”

In conclusion, Nigeria and the UAE are set to engage in discussions to resolve visa challenges faced by Nigerians, particularly affecting tourism. This initiative highlights the strong diplomatic relations and economic collaboration between the two countries. Both parties are optimistic about enhancing their partnership through future joint commissions and agreements aimed at solidifying their bilateral economic ties. The commitment to address visa issues exemplifies the UAE’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for Nigerian citizens.

Original Source: dailypost.ng