President Bola Tinubu has directed all relevant federal agencies to immediately address concerns raised by the United States and the United Arab Emirates over recent adjustments to their visa policies impacting Nigerian passport holders. The directive was announced on Tuesday in Abuja through a statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
According to the statement, the U.S. government officially informed Nigeria that the decision to revise visa issuance for Nigerian citizens was driven by two key factors: a surge in visa overstays and challenges in verifying applicants’ identities. U.S. authorities emphasized that these measures are consistent with their global visa reciprocity framework, which is periodically updated based on security and policy evaluations.
In response, President Tinubu has instructed all concerned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to collaborate and implement comprehensive solutions. He charged the agencies with the task of strengthening interagency cooperation, improving data systems for identity authentication, and ensuring Nigeria meets its international obligations under various diplomatic agreements.
“The President calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and to uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those jurisdictions,” the statement noted.
UAE Visa Status Still Unclear
While the U.S. government formally communicated its concerns, the Federal Government said it had not received any official notice from the United Arab Emirates regarding any change in its visa policy for Nigerian citizens. However, it acknowledged that visa issuance was currently ongoing in what it described as a “gradual and orderly manner.”
Despite the absence of formal communication, President Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the ongoing diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the UAE. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s willingness to address any legitimate concerns that might arise through appropriate diplomatic channels.
Emphasis on Diplomacy and Data Integrity
The Federal Government emphasized its “unwavering commitment to maintaining and strengthening the longstanding and cordial diplomatic relations” with both the United States and the UAE. President Tinubu’s administration, the statement said, remains focused on a foreign policy that enables Nigerians to “travel, work, and live with dignity and respect in any part of the world.”
This commitment is in line with the administration’s 4-D Foreign Policy agenda, which centers on Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora engagement. Tinubu has made it clear that the welfare of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority, and his government will act proactively to resolve international disputes that could affect the rights and mobility of Nigerian citizens.
Enhancing Global Cooperation
As diplomatic discussions continue, the Tinubu administration is working to improve international cooperation, enhance data-sharing mechanisms, and boost the transparency and security of visa processes. This includes developing systems to ensure reliable background checks, accurate applicant records, and compliance with international standards.
The government also aims to minimize future visa restrictions by demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to responsible international travel practices and by addressing immigration-related challenges that have historically led to visa denials or limitations for its citizens.
The statement concluded by reiterating that President Tinubu remains resolute in his pledge to safeguard the interests of all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, and to foster global partnerships built on mutual respect and shared responsibility.
