President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed relevant federal institutions to immediately respond to concerns raised by the governments of the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over recent changes in visa issuance processes that affect Nigerian citizens.
This was made known in a statement released Tuesday in Abuja by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
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As outlined in the statement, U.S. authorities informed the Nigerian government that their decision to adjust visa regulations for Nigerians stems from two major issues: increasing cases of overstayed visas by Nigerian nationals and difficulties accessing verifiable records during the application process.
The U.S. clarified that these revisions are part of a broader global visa reciprocity policy, which undergoes regular evaluations and can involve changes in visa validity or restrictions.
In response, President Tinubu has instructed all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to collaborate and align with Nigeria’s international responsibilities. He also emphasized the importance of inter-agency coordination and the strengthening of identity verification systems for Nigerians seeking foreign services.
“The President calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and to uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those jurisdictions,” the statement read.
Concerning the UAE, the Federal Government clarified that no official notice had been received from Abu Dhabi signaling any change in visa policies. However, it acknowledged that visa processing was gradually resuming.
Despite the lack of a formal update, President Tinubu welcomed continued diplomatic dialogue with the UAE and confirmed that legitimate issues raised through those channels were being handled appropriately by Nigerian authorities.
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining solid bilateral ties with both nations and reiterated that the Tinubu administration’s foreign relations would remain anchored in dignity and respect for Nigerians wherever they reside.
The statement further emphasized that the President’s foreign policy outlook is in line with the 4-D agenda — Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora — ensuring that Nigerian citizens can thrive in any global environment.
It concluded with a pledge from the Federal Government to enhance data sharing and transparency in international travel procedures, as well as to continue safeguarding the rights and interests of Nigerians abroad.
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