Nigeria Engages with US and UAE Over New Visa Policies

Nigeria Engages with US and UAE Over New Visa Policies

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated formal discussions with the governments of the United States and the United Arab Emirates following recent changes to their visa issuance policies for Nigerian citizens. This move comes as part of efforts to address the implications of these policy adjustments.Both the US and UAE have introduced new visa rules affecting Nigerian nationals. The US government's decision was reportedly driven by concerns over the frequency of overstays and challenges in accessing reliable identity records.The US clarified that these changes are part of a broader, routinely reviewed global visa reciprocity process. This process involves variations in the number of allowable entries and visa validity periods.Relevant Nigerian ministries, departments, and agencies are working through diplomatic channels to address the implications of the new visa rules. The government aims to enhance compliance with international commitments and improve mechanisms for verifying the identities of Nigerian citizens applying for consular services abroad.President Bola Tinubu has directed federal agencies to take steps to improve cooperation and compliance. He also urged Nigerian citizens to respect the immigration laws of their host countries and use their travel documentation responsibly.On the situation with the United Arab Emirates, the Nigerian government said it has not yet received formal notice from UAE authorities regarding any new visa policy. However, it acknowledged that visa processing is gradually resuming.“The government of the United Arab Emirates has remained cooperative and engaged with Nigerian officials,” the statement noted. “Any legitimate concerns raised are being resolved through appropriate diplomatic processes.”President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerians abroad.He stressed that Nigeria would continue to strengthen its diplomatic relationships with both the U.S. and the UAE, in line with the administration’s 4-D Foreign Policy strategy, particularly its Diaspora engagement.The government pledged to pursue outcomes that ensure Nigerians can travel and reside abroad with dignity and lawful recognition.

Source: Nigeria Engages with US and UAE Over New Visa Policies

 - NigerianEye

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