The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced efforts to resolve visa procurement issues for Nigerians aiming to travel to the UAE. Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged the difficulties faced, while UAE Ambassador Salem Alshamsi affirmed a commitment to improving the visa process. A joint commission is expected to address concerns on both sides, aiming to enhance bilateral relations.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced plans to address the visa procurement challenges faced by Nigerians traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this statement following a meeting with UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Alshamsi. This concern arises despite strong diplomatic ties and strategic partnerships between Nigeria and the UAE.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the significant interest Nigerians have in the UAE, particularly Dubai, which is a favored destination. Approximately 12,000 Nigerians live in the UAE, including workers, professionals, and students. Notably, in 2015, nearly one million Nigerians visited the UAE, spending an estimated $100 million to $150 million on visas and over $1 billion on shopping, education, and other services.
The minister emphasized the need for a more equitable economic relationship, while noting that the current visa situation has been a concern for both citizens and high-ranking Nigerian officials. She mentioned that a joint commission between Nigeria and the UAE is forthcoming after one was previously held in the UAE in 2022.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also expressed gratitude for the UAE’s recent humanitarian assistance, including relief materials for flooding and chickenpox vaccines to support Nigeria’s healthcare. She underlined the importance of communicating any new visa policies to Nigerians and proposed hosting the upcoming joint commission in Nigeria to discuss bilateral issues such as energy.
Ambassador Alshamsi congratulated Odumegwu-Ojukwu on her role and noted the advancements in the 50-year Nigeria-UAE relationship. He reported the issuance of over 700 tourism visas since July 2024 and highlighted a commitment to resolving visa issues for Nigerians. He reiterated the UAE’s willingness to collaborate to reinforce economic partnerships and anticipate signing a major agreement ahead of the Nigerian president’s visit to the UAE in mid-2025.
The Nigerian government is actively seeking solutions to the visa acquisition challenges faced by its citizens wanting to travel to the UAE. This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment to fostering stronger diplomatic relations and economic partnerships between the two countries. The forthcoming joint commission signifies a collaborative approach to address various bilateral issues and enhance mutual benefits in trade and tourism.
Original Source: nannews.ng
