The UAE resumed issuing visas to Nigerian nationals starting July 15, as announced by Nigeria's Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris. This development follows a successful agreement between the Nigerian government and the UAE, reopening travel opportunities for Nigerian passport holders to the GCC nation.
This marks a significant milestone, ending over two years of suspended visa services for Nigerians by the UAE.
"After extensive, mutually beneficial negotiations, the UAE and Nigeria have reached an agreement to resume visa issuance for Nigerian passport holders. This agreement includes updated controls and conditions to facilitate the visa application process,"
read the official statement.
Speaking to the media in Abuja, Minister Idris stated,
"The agreement has been finalized, and effective immediately, Nigerian passport holders can now apply for visas to travel to the UAE."
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
— Mohammed Idris, FNIPR (@HMMohammedIdris) July 15, 2024
FG, UAE Reach Agreement on Resumption of Travels for Nigerian Passport Holders
Following successful talks and extensive, mutually beneficial negotiations between the Government of the United Arab Emirates and the Government of the Federal Republic of… pic.twitter.com/uXpLenmA6r
Resumption of Flights Between the UAE and Nigeria
This visa resumption comes two months after flights between the UAE and Nigeria resumed in May. The UAE had suspended its international flights to Nigeria due to a payment backlog exceeding two years. Nigeria’s central bank has since settled approximately $137 million in foreign exchange owed to international airlines.
This agreement represents a positive step towards strengthening diplomatic relations and enhancing travel opportunities between Nigeria and the UAE, the statement added.
News Source: Gulf Business
