President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all relevant government agencies to urgently address the ongoing visa issuance challenges affecting Nigerian travelers to the United States and the United Arab Emirates. This move follows growing concerns over diplomatic bottlenecks and evolving policy shifts that have hampered travel, trade, and bilateral cooperation.
In a statement released from the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of restoring full access and confidence in Nigeria’s global mobility, urging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria Immigration Service to collaborate with their US and UAE counterparts toward resolving the impasse.
“Nigerians must not be held back from legitimate global engagement due to policy gaps and administrative delays,” Tinubu stated. “We are working to ensure our citizens are treated with fairness, dignity, and efficiency abroad.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is tasked with initiating high-level talks with embassies in Abuja and consulates abroad to clarify visa processing delays and policy revisions.
A special task force is to be formed to assess Nigeria's migration framework and recommend reforms aligned with international standards.
The Federal Government will launch a digital hub to assist citizens in navigating complex visa processes, offering real-time updates and support.
The President’s directive underscores Nigeria’s commitment to fostering equitable diplomatic relations and safeguarding the rights of its citizens in global settings. As the largest economy in Africa and a key strategic partner to both the US and UAE, Nigeria’s call for transparency and cooperation is expected to resonate strongly on the international stage.
Affected stakeholders, including business leaders, academics, and diaspora organizations, are invited to submit input to a newly created inter-agency task force over the next 30 days. A public update on progress is expected in early August.