Nigeria’s economic and diplomatic ties with the United Arab Emirates are set for a major boost as First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) opens its Lagos office.
The development was announced during a visit by UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, to Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in Abuja.
Non-oil trade between both nations rose from $4.3 billion in 2024 to $5 billion in 2025, with projections to reach $8 billion by 2027. Ambassador Al-Shamsi also confirmed that Etihad Airlines will commence Abuja operations later this year, signaling deeper commercial and aviation links between Nigeria and the UAE.
Visa restrictions for Nigerians have eased significantly, with no routine rejections now recorded. Over 15,000 Nigerians traveled to the UAE in the past year. The minister described the progress as evidence of both countries’ commitment to stronger people-to-people exchanges.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria and the UAE are advancing implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), designed to transform economic ties and deliver tangible benefits for Nigerian businesses, professionals, and workers.
She restated Nigeria’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for Foreign Direct Investment, including from UAE sovereign wealth funds and private sector entities.
Reacting to the milestones, the minister said: “In less than a year, key issues raised during my tenure as Minister of State have been resolved, especially regarding visas. Moving non-oil trade from $4.3 billion to over $5 billion shows the UAE’s commitment to deepening our bilateral relations.”
Ambassador Al-Shamsi reaffirmed the UAE’s solidarity with Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, noting that his country has issued at least eight statements condemning terrorist attacks in Nigeria. During the meeting, he presented a congratulatory letter to the minister from UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on her assumption of office.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed appreciation for the gesture, recalling that His Highness was the first to call and congratulate her on her elevation by President Bola Tinubu, and had extended an invitation to visit the UAE.
Nigeria and the UAE have maintained warm, cordial, and mutually beneficial diplomatic ties since 1971, driven by trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
