Amid growing concerns over visa restrictions, Nigeria and the UAE are taking steps to reset their diplomatic and economic relationship.
With thousands of Nigerians investing in the UAE’s tourism, real estate, and business sectors, officials from both countries are now seeking a more balanced partnership.
During a meeting at Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, urged UAE Ambassador Salem Saeed Alshamsi to address these concerns.
Nigeria’s Strong Ties With The UAE
For years, Nigerians have actively contributed to the UAE’s economy through tourism, business, and work, with approximately 12,000 currently living there.
In 2015 alone, nearly a million Nigerians travelled to the UAE and spent over $1 billion on tourism and shopping.
However, despite these strong ties, visa challenges continue to create uncertainty for travellers.
Call For Clearer Policies
Recognising the need for a solution, Odumegwu-Ojukwu called on the UAE to clarify its visa policies.
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She also emphasised Nigeria’s substantial economic contributions, particularly in tourism and real estate, and proposed hosting a Nigeria-UAE Joint Commission meeting to strengthen bilateral agreements and expand cooperation in renewable energy.
UAE’s Commitment To Progress
In response, Alshamsi reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to its partnership with Nigeria.
He highlighted his efforts in ensuring smooth visa approvals and noted, “Since I arrived in Nigeria a year and a half ago, I have approved every visa application I received.
From July 2024 alone, we issued over 700 tourism visas.”
A Path Forward
Looking ahead, he promised further discussions to resolve visa concerns and improve trade relations.
With the UAE President preparing for a visit to Nigeria later this year, both nations now have a crucial opportunity to reinforce their diplomatic and economic ties.
