Diplomatic Breakthrough: Nigeria and UAE Reach Visa Agreement
In a significant development, the Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully negotiated a visa agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), effective July 15, 2024. This milestone announcement was made by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja.
The agreement allows Nigerian passport holders to obtain visas for travel to the UAE, marking a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. This achievement is a testament to the diplomatic efforts of President Bola Tinubu's administration, building on the momentum from his visit to the UAE in September 2023.
The UAE had previously imposed a visa ban on Nigerian travellers, but following President Tinubu's engagement with President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the groundwork was laid for the lifting of this restriction. The Federal Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had hinted at this development in June, and now the agreement has come to fruition.
This breakthrough has significant implications for Nigerian citizens, facilitating travel and opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between both nations.