The Federal Government of Nigeria has responded to recent developments in Visa issuance policies by the United States and the United Arab Emirates, assuring citizens that it is actively engaging diplomatic channels to resolve any concerns and protect the interests of Nigerians abroad.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government expressed its commitment to sustaining Nigeria’s long-standing diplomatic relationships with both countries.
The statement confirmed that the U.S. government had communicated its decision to adjust visa issuance terms for Nigerians, citing visa overstay rates and the need for reliable access to applicants’ records as key reasons.
The U.S. explained that the changes are part of its global visa reciprocity review, which could affect the number of permitted entries and the duration of visa validity.
President Bola Tinubu has directed all federal agencies to ensure full compliance with Nigeria’s international obligations and to enhance cooperation on verifying the identities of Nigerians seeking consular services abroad.
He urged Nigerian citizens to respect immigration laws and uphold the integrity of the privileges granted to them in foreign countries.
On the UAE, the Federal Government noted that it has not received any official communication regarding a change in visa policy for Nigerian nationals. However, it acknowledged that transit visa issuance appears to be proceeding in an orderly fashion.
The statement praised the UAE for its continued engagement with Nigerian authorities, describing the cooperation as constructive and respectful.
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President Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to ensuring that citizens can travel, work, and live with dignity anywhere in the world, aligning with the administration’s 4-D Foreign Policy agenda, which includes a strong focus on the welfare of the diaspora.
The government reiterated its resolve to strengthen diplomatic ties with both the United States and the United Arab Emirates in the interest of mutual respect and national development.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
