FG Demands Reciprocity in Visa Policies for Nigerian Businesses
Abuja—President Bola Tinubu has urged foreign governments to adopt more liberal visa policies for Nigerian businesses seeking to expand globally. This call highlights growing concerns about the inequities Nigerian enterprises face when navigating international markets, despite Nigeria’s openness to foreign investors.
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The President’s demand came on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of African Union Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Tinubu emphasized the need for fairness in visa issuance to Nigerian entrepreneurs, citing Nigeria’s welcoming business environment for foreign companies.
Lack of Reciprocity in Visa Policies
Idris illustrated this disparity with an example from Indonesia, where more than 50 Indonesian companies operate in Nigeria, yet fewer than five Nigerian companies have been able to establish themselves in Indonesia. The imbalance, he noted, was due in part to restrictive visa policies that hinder Nigerian business expansion.
“If they want to come to our country to trade because of our population and ability to purchase their goods and services, then there should be reciprocal arrangements. The visa issue is a significant problem not just in Indonesia but also in Ethiopia,” Idris stated.
The minister’s remarks also come amid recent diplomatic tensions following the Canadian government’s refusal to grant a visa to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, who was set to travel to Vancouver for the Invictus Games for wounded soldiers. The move has sparked criticism from Nigerian officials, who see it as an affront to diplomatic ties.
Ethiopia’s Visa Restrictions for Nigerians
Further exacerbating the issue, the Ethiopian government recently revoked e-visa and Visa-on-Arrival options for Nigerian travelers, causing distress among the Nigerian community in Ethiopia. Idris assured them that the matter would be escalated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for appropriate diplomatic intervention.
“Every relationship with other countries is reciprocal. If we grant them Visa-on-Arrival, they should do the same for us,” Idris asserted.
Nigerians Urged to Improve National Image
Beyond government intervention, Idris emphasized the role of Nigerian expatriates in shaping international perceptions of the country. He urged Nigerians abroad to conduct themselves responsibly, arguing that their behavior significantly influences diplomatic and economic relationships.
“We do not allow bad people to represent us. Those living abroad must uphold the dignity of Nigeria,” he said.
Government’s Efforts to Boost Economy and Security
Idris also highlighted the Tinubu administration’s strides in revitalizing the economy and improving national security. Key achievements include:
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Nigeria recently secured $1.07 billion in FDIs for pharmaceutical manufacturing industries.
Student Loan Scheme: Over N32 billion disbursed in less than 250 days to assist students.
Security Improvements: Nigerian security forces have neutralized 8,000 terrorists and bandits in 2024, rescued 8,000 kidnapped victims, and made over 11,600 arrests.
Infrastructure Development: Security along the Kaduna-Abuja expressway has significantly improved, with a notable reduction in criminal activities.
Call for Stronger Intra-African Trade
The President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, Muideen Alimi, announced plans to collaborate with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to organize a workshop focused on boosting intra-African trade. The initiative aims to strengthen Nigeria’s economic ties within the continent and create more opportunities for Nigerian businesses abroad.
The call for more liberalized visa policies reflects Nigeria’s growing frustration with restrictive immigration barriers imposed on its citizens and businesses. As the government pushes for fair treatment on the global stage, it remains to be seen whether foreign nations will heed Nigeria’s call for reciprocity in trade and travel policies. Until then, Nigerian entrepreneurs will continue to face an uphill battle in securing their rightful place in the international market.
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FG Demands Reciprocity in Visa Policies for Nigerian Businesses