Nigeria Demands Fair Visa Treatment for Businesses Expanding Globally
(EPICSTORIAN) — The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for more reciprocal visa policies to support Nigerian businesses looking to establish operations abroad.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the appeal during a meeting with Nigerian community leaders in Ethiopia.
Representing President Bola Tinubu at the 38th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Idris emphasized the need for balanced visa agreements that would allow Nigerian enterprises the same access that foreign companies enjoy in Nigeria.
Why Reciprocal Visa Policies?
During the meeting, Idris noted that many foreign businesses, including about 50 Indonesian companies, operate in Nigeria, while fewer than five Nigerian businesses have a presence in Indonesia.
He pointed out that visa restrictions remain a significant barrier, preventing Nigerian entrepreneurs from expanding their operations globally.
“If they want to come to our country to trade because of our population and purchasing power, then there should also be a reciprocal arrangement where Nigerians are given the rightful place,” he said.
“The visa issue is the same problem in Ethiopia and Indonesia. It becomes very complex for Nigerians to obtain visas.”
Addressing concerns about Ethiopia’s decision to revoke e-visa and Visa-on-Arrival options for Nigerian travelers, Idris assured the Nigerian community that the issue would be escalated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for diplomatic intervention.
How Do Visa Policies Impact Bilateral Relations?
Idris stressed that visa policies between nations are often shaped by the principle of reciprocity. He argued that Nigeria grants Visa-on-Arrival to citizens of several countries and should expect the same treatment for its nationals.
“Every relationship with other countries is reciprocal. If we give them Visa-on-Arrival, there is no reason why they should not extend the same policy to us,” he stated.
He urged Nigerians abroad to uphold positive conduct, stating that their actions significantly influence how the country is perceived internationally.
“We don’t allow bad people to represent us, and that’s where you come in. Those living abroad must represent Nigeria well because diplomatic visits alone cannot change perceptions about our country,” he added.
Providing updates on the Tinubu administration’s economic agenda, Idris highlighted efforts to attract foreign investment, improve security, and expand infrastructure.
He announced that Nigeria has secured approximately $1.07 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for pharmaceutical manufacturing, a move expected to boost local drug production, reduce reliance on imports, create jobs, and strengthen the healthcare sector.
The government has also disbursed around N32 billion through the Student Loan Scheme, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent access to higher education.
How Has Security Improved Under the Current Administration?
Idris stated that security forces had neutralized 8,000 terrorists and bandits, rescued an equal number of kidnapped victims, and made 11,600 arrests in 2024 alone.
He pointed to the improved safety along the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, a route previously known for high criminal activity.
“Reform is a difficult task, but there is a gradual progression toward prosperity for all, as promised by the President,” he said.
What Are Nigerians in Ethiopia Advocating For?
Muideen Alimi, President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, emphasized the need for stronger economic collaboration across Africa.
He revealed plans to work with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) on a workshop focused on intra-African trade and economic development.
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Alimi also called for Nigeria’s active participation in the establishment of an African Central Bank and a stronger role in the African Remittance Agency.
The meeting was attended by the Director General of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and other top government officials.
