Nigeria and the UAE plan to meet over visa issues faced by Nigerians. Discussions were initiated by UAE Ambassador Salem Alshamsi’s visit to Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. The meeting aims to address visa procurement difficulties and enhance bilateral economic relations through a joint commission focused on several collaboration areas.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nigeria are set to hold meetings to address visa procurement challenges for Nigerians seeking to travel to the UAE. This decision follows a courtesy visit by UAE Ambassador Salem Saeed Alshamsi to Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
Nigerians face significant hurdles in obtaining UAE visas, particularly for tourism, which has raised concerns at various levels. The minister highlighted the strong diplomatic ties, mentioning that nearly 12,000 Nigerians reside in the UAE, contributing to its economy. In 2015, approximately a million Nigerians visited the UAE, spending extensively on tourism and related activities.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized the need for balanced economic relations, stating that “there have been numerous concerns about the status of visa for the UAE”. She called for clarity regarding any new visa policies to better inform Nigerian citizens, especially given their investments in the UAE.
The meeting will also pave the way for a joint commission between the two nations, focusing on bilateral issues such as renewable energy and trade. The minister expressed optimism about addressing outstanding MOUs during this commission.
In addition, the minister acknowledged the UAE’s recent aid contributions, including relief supplies for flood victims in Nigeria. Ambassador Alshamsi reported a commitment to facilitating visa processes, stating that there has been “zero visa rejection since I came to Nigeria” and expressing readiness to enhance trade and investment partnerships with Nigeria.
The upcoming meetings between Nigeria and the UAE aim to resolve visa challenges faced by Nigerians, enhance diplomatic relations, and explore effective collaboration across several sectors. With mutual interests in tourism and economic partnerships, both countries stand to benefit significantly as they navigate these visa and bilateral issues. The commitment to holding a joint commission reflects the intention to solidify relationships, address concerns, and facilitate trade and investment opportunities.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
