UAE to Lift Visa Ban on Nigerians, Says Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo

The longstanding visa face-off between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to end, according to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

The announcement came during a welcome dinner for delegates attending the International Air Transport Association (IATA) 80th Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in Dubai.

In his address on Monday, Keyamo disclosed that the diplomatic disputes that led to the UAE imposing a visa ban on Nigerians have been resolved.

“The issue of visa has been resolved, just the announcement remaining. They want to dot the I’s and cross the T’s. The announcement will be in a couple of weeks,” he stated.

The visa ban, which severely restricted travel for Nigerians to the UAE, particularly to popular destinations like Dubai, was initially imposed due to a series of diplomatic disagreements.

However, recent efforts spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, who intervened in August 2023, have paved the way for a resolution. This intervention also addressed the related face-off with Emirates Airlines, which had suspended its flights to Nigeria.

The significance of the resolution was underscored by the warm reception Keyamo received at the summit.

Accompanied by the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum, Keyamo’s entrance was met with applause from over 2,000 delegates.

This reception, Keyamo noted, is a testament to the valued relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.

In a conversation with journalists on the sidelines of the event, Keyamo explained the importance of restoring and maintaining strong ties with the UAE.

“The UAE is considered a very important partner to Nigeria. Nigerians have a lot of stakes here in the UAE with significant investments. We are making it a priority to ensure that the travel route is reopened and that the visa application process is made easier for Nigerians,” he said.

Keyamo also highlighted the trust and value the UAE places on its relationship with Nigeria.

“I was on the same ride with the ruler of Dubai, the Minister, and the head of Emirates Group, along with other top officials. This level of engagement shows how much they value Nigeria and how they want to rebuild this relationship,” he added.

The lifting of the visa ban is expected to have a substantial positive impact on both nations. It will not only facilitate travel for Nigerians seeking to visit or invest in the UAE but also strengthen economic and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

As the final details are being fine-tuned, Nigerians eagerly await the formal announcement. The resolution marks a significant diplomatic achievement and opens the door for renewed cooperation and mutual benefit.