The Federal Government has pledged to resolve the ongoing visa challenges with the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through diplomatic channels while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with both countries. In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, presidential spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga explained that the recent adjustments in visa issuance policies by both countries have prompted proactive engagement by relevant Nigerian agencies.
According to Onanuga, the United States government has officially communicated that its decision to adjust visa policies for Nigerian citizens was driven by two main factors: the high rate of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals and the need for reliable access to their records. He added that the U.S. clarified the policy adjustment as part of its global visa reciprocity process, which undergoes periodic reviews and changes, including entry limits and visa validity durations. President Bola Tinubu, Onanuga said, has directed all federal agencies to ensure compliance with international obligations and to strengthen consular identity verification systems to build confidence with partner countries.
“The President calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those jurisdictions,” he stated. On the UAE situation, Onanuga clarified that Nigeria has not received any formal notice of a revised visa policy. However, he noted that visa issuance by Emirati authorities is proceeding gradually. “The Federal Government notes that it has not received any formal communication from the UAE authorities regarding a new visa policy. However, it is observed that visa issuance is progressing in an orderly manner,” he said. President Tinubu, according to Onanuga, appreciates the UAE’s ongoing cooperation with Nigeria in addressing outstanding concerns and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to resolving issues in the spirit of mutual respect and partnership.
