Federal government has reaffirmed its strong commitment to resolve the visa dispute with the United States of America and United Arab Emirates, UAE, through diplomatic engagement.
It also reiterated its unwavering commitment to strengthen the longstanding cordial diplomatic relations with the government of both countries.
This was contained in a statement issued Wednesday by the presidential spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
Onanuga said the reassurance followed recent adjustments in visa issuance policies affecting Nigerian citizens by both countries.
According to him, relevant government agencies are actively engaging their counterparts to address the concerns through appropriate channels.
“The United States government has officially communicated that its decision was based on two principal factors: the current rate of visa overstay by Nigerian nationals and the need for reliable access to their records.
“It explained that the visa policy adjustment is part of its global visa reciprocity process which is routinely reviewed and subject to change, including the number of permitted entries and validity duration.”
President Bola Tinubu, he said, had directed all federal agencies to comply fully with international obligations and strengthen consular identity verification systems.
“The president calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those jurisdictions,” Onanuga said.
Regarding new visa requirements for UAE transit visas, Onanuga clarified that no formal notice had been received from the Emirati government.
“The federal government notes that it has not received any formal communication from UAE authorities regarding a revised visa policy.
“However, it has been observed that visa issuance is currently progressing in a gradual and orderly manner,” he said.
According to him, the president appreciates UAE’s ongoing cooperation with Nigerian authorities and commitment to resolving issues.
“Any genuine concern raised is being addressed through appropriate channels in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration,” Onanuga added.
The president, he said, gave assurance that the welfare of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority under his 4-D Foreign Policy agenda, particularly its Diaspora engagement pillar.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthen bilateral ties with the government of the United States of America and UAE. NAN
