The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced an effort to resolve visa issues for Nigerians seeking to travel to the UAE. Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu underscored the challenges faced by Nigerians, while Ambassador Salem Alshamsi confirmed the UAE’s commitment to improving visa processes and strengthening bilateral relations. Future meetings and agreements are expected to enhance cooperation.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced plans to resolve visa issues faced by Nigerians traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the statement following a visit from UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Salem Alshamsi. Many Nigerians experience difficulties, particularly with tourism visas, despite existing diplomatic relations between both nations.
Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to its relationship with the UAE, noting that Dubai has become a popular destination for Nigerians. Approximately 12,000 Nigerians reside in the UAE, encompassing various demographics from unskilled workers to professionals and students. Notably, in 2015, nearly one million Nigerians visited the UAE and significantly contributed to the economy through spending on visas and other sectors.
The Minister highlighted the necessity for a balanced economic partnership between Nigeria and the UAE, addressing current visa concerns that have even concerned some Nigerian officials. Plans for a joint commission were mentioned, which was due to be hosted in Nigeria after a prior meeting in the UAE. Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed gratitude for the UAE’s recent humanitarian assistance, including relief materials and vaccines for Nigeria.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu insisted the need for clearer communication regarding any new visa policies for Nigerians. She offered to host the next joint commission meeting to discuss diverse bilateral matters, including power and renewable energy.
Ambassador Alshamsi acknowledged Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s appointment and praised the past progress of Nigeria-UAE relations. He reported that over 700 tourism visas had been issued since mid-2024 with no visa rejections recorded during his tenure. He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to ameliorate visa challenges and spoke on upcoming agreements designed to enhance bilateral cooperation before the Nigerian president’s planned visit to the UAE in 2025.
The article highlights the ongoing efforts between Nigeria and the UAE to address visa challenges faced by Nigerians. Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Ambassador Alshamsi emphasize the importance of fostering a balanced economic relationship and communicate their commitments to improving visa processes. Future meetings, including a joint commission, are anticipated to further strengthen these diplomatic ties.
Original Source: nannews.ng
