Historic Agreement: UAE Lifts Visa Ban on Nigerian Travelers , Resumes Flights

Issued by: Chief Ajuri Ngelale Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) Office of the President September 11, 2023

In a significant diplomatic achievement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have finalized a historic agreement that results in the immediate lifting of the visa ban imposed on Nigerian travelers. This breakthrough was achieved during a meeting between the two leaders in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

As a result of this groundbreaking agreement, both Etihad Airlines and Emirates Airlines will promptly resume their flight schedules to and from Nigeria without any further delay. Importantly, this swift restoration of flight services does not entail an immediate financial burden on the Nigerian government, as clarified in the negotiations between the two heads of state.

This agreement marks a significant milestone in President Tinubu’s economic development diplomacy efforts. During the meeting, President Tinubu presented proposals aimed at fostering closer economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE. As a result, an agreed framework has been established that will facilitate substantial investments worth several billions of U.S. dollars in the Nigerian economy. These investments will span various sectors, including defense, agriculture, and others, and will be carried out by the investment arms of the UAE Government.

In addition to this economic cooperation, President Tinubu successfully negotiated a joint foreign exchange liquidity program between the two governments. This program, which will be elaborated upon in the coming weeks, is set to enhance economic stability and cooperation between Nigeria and the UAE.

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President Tinubu expressed his deep appreciation for the unswerving friendship of President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his commitment to working together to fully normalize and elevate the standards of relations between Nigeria and the UAE.

This landmark agreement not only restores travel and economic ties but also signifies the strengthening of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the UAE. It is expected to contribute positively to the growth and development of both nations.