Following discussions between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reports said, the visa ban imposed on Nigeria may have been lifted.
This comes two years after the UAE imposed a visa ban on Nigerians and automatically rejected pending visa applications.
A statement circulating on X, formerly Twitter, stated that the milestone reflects the successful outcome of in-depth talks between Nigeria and the UAE.
The statement titled: ‘Resumption of Visa Services for Nigerians Travelling to the UAE,’ also said to ensure a seamless and efficient visa application experience, the UAE has introduced an enhanced document verification process.
It added that “starting 4th March 2024, all Nigerian applicants for UAE visas are required to first obtain a document verification number.
“After obtaining the document verification number, applicants can proceed with their visa applications through designated travel agents, after which the process will be completed at the Embassy of the UAE in Abuja or Lagos.
“We encourage all prospective travelers to adhere to the guidelines and initiate their applications promptly, ensuring a smooth transition to the new system.
“This announcement signifies our ongoing efforts to enhance the strong ties between the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of our people.”
Meanwhile, when Tunde Moshood, SA Media and Communications to Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, was contacted, he said the statement looked like a draft and he couldn’t speak to it.
Moshood said, “This looks like a draft, I can’t speak to this, maybe you should confirm from Foreign Affairs. We are not in the best position to confirm this, what I know is that the UAE High Commissioner to Nigeria was with the Minister last week and the issue is about to be resolved.”