President Bola Tinubu has instructed federal agencies responsible for consular and immigration issues to strictly comply with Nigeria’s international obligations and to enhance inter-governmental cooperation in verifying the identities of citizens applying for visas and consular services overseas.
This directive follows recent changes in visa issuance practices by the United States and the United Arab Emirates, affecting Nigerian travellers.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining Nigeria’s historic diplomatic ties with both nations.
The US Government has communicated that the new visa regulations for Nigerian nationals stem from a global review of visa reciprocity, motivated by concerns over high rates of visa overstays and the need for improved identity verification for applicants.
Such reviews are conducted periodically and may result in changes to the number of entries allowed and the duration of issued visas.
In response to these developments, President Tinubu has directed all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to align their operations with international standards, particularly regarding biometric data and identity authentication.
He also encouraged Nigerians abroad to respect the immigration laws of their host countries and to uphold the integrity of their travel documents.
Concerning the United Arab Emirates, the Presidency clarified that, despite observations regarding the gradual issuance of transit visas to Nigerians, no official policy change has been communicated by UAE authorities.
Nevertheless, the Federal Government acknowledged the UAE’s “constructive and engaged” stance and assured Nigerians that diplomatic channels remain active.
“The President appreciates the ongoing cooperation from the UAE Government, which continues to engage positively with Nigerian authorities. Any genuine concerns raised are being handled through the appropriate diplomatic channels,” the statement read.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring Nigerians can travel, work, and live with dignity and respect globally, in line with his 4-D Foreign Policy—Defence, Democracy, Development, and Diaspora.
The Federal Government will continue to seek outcomes that protect and advance the interests of Nigerian citizens abroad while furthering diplomatic relations with both the United States and the UAE.
