Nigeria and UAE Collaborate to Address Visa Challenges for Travelers

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has announced plans to resolve visa issues faced by Nigerians traveling to the UAE. This commitment follows meetings with UAE Ambassador Salem Alshamsi, highlighting the economic significance of the relationship and the need for improved visa access. The two nations aim to strengthen ties through enhanced cooperation and upcoming joint discussions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria has declared its intent to address the issues surrounding visa procurement for Nigerians wishing to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This announcement was made by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, following a visit from Amb. Salem Alshamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria.

Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged the struggles that Nigerians have experienced in securing UAE visas, particularly those for tourism. She emphasized that these challenges persist despite the warm diplomatic relations and strategic partnerships that exist between Nigeria and the UAE.

Highlighting the significance of this relationship, Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that Dubai has become a favored destination for many Nigerians, with approximately 12,000 Nigerians residing in the UAE, including unskilled workers, professionals, and students. She also pointed out that in 2015, nearly one million Nigerians visited the UAE, contributing significantly to the economy through visa fees and expenditures on shopping, education, and tourism.

The Minister reiterated the need for a more equitable economic partnership between Nigeria and the UAE. She expressed concerns that the current visa regulations have affected even high-ranking Nigerian government officials. Furthermore, she mentioned the plans for a forthcoming joint commission to address various bilateral issues, which is set to take place in Nigeria after the UAE’s hosting in 2022.

Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed gratitude to the UAE for its recent assistance to Nigeria, including donations of relief materials to flood victims and health support in the form of vaccines. She underscored the importance of communicating any new visa policy to Nigerians and emphasized the desire to host upcoming collaborative discussions focused on pivotal areas such as renewable energy and power.

Ambassador Alshamsi extended his congratulations to Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu on her position and acknowledged the progress made throughout the 50-year relationship between Nigeria and the UAE. He confirmed that over the past year and a half, both governments have issued numerous visas while working through an appointed agency.

He reassured that the UAE is dedicated to resolving the visa challenges faced by Nigerian citizens and stressed the mutual commitment to enhancing economic partnerships. Alshamsi also highlighted the issuance of over 700 tourism visas since July 2024, stating that there have been no visa rejections during his tenure, and he pledged to continue strengthening bilateral agreements in anticipation of the Nigerian President’s visit to the UAE in 2025.

In summary, both Nigeria and the UAE are committed to resolving challenges related to visa procurement for Nigerians. The discussions aim to strengthen economic ties and enhance cooperation in various sectors, including tourism and education. The collaboration between the two nations illustrates their shared goal of fostering a balanced and prosperous relationship, yet ongoing concerns regarding visa accessibility indicate a need for continued dialogue and reform.

Original Source: nannews.ng