The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared a significant policy shift in the issuance of visas to foreigners seeking entry into the country.
Minister of Interior, Olabunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this announcement during the “Nigeria Forward: Catalysing Funding for High Impact Social Projects” conference, organized by Business Day. The new approach, based on the principle of reciprocity, means that the fees for Nigerian visas will mirror those charged to Nigerians seeking visas to other countries.
Ojo clarified that this policy aims to treat foreigners in Nigeria in a manner that aligns with how Nigerian citizens are treated abroad. This reciprocity principle represents a shift from previous times when Nigerians faced discrimination in terms of visa issuance by other nations. According to the minister, this policy change reflects the current administration’s commitment to fairness and equity in international relations.
Additionally, the government is planning to bolster border security through stricter surveillance measures to monitor the inflow and outflow of people, with a primary focus on enhancing safety and security within the country.
Tunji-Ojo emphasised that Nigeria will no longer tolerate discriminatory practises by other countries in visa issuance and will instead adopt a give-and-take approach as a more efficient and equitable way of managing visa policies.
He cited an example of informing the director of Turkey’s Centre for Illegal Migration that Nigeria would respond in kind to countries that do not grant visa-on-arrival to Nigerian passport holders.
“Any country that does not give me a visa on arrival cannot have a visa on arrival in Nigeria. I’m sorry, but it is the truth. We’re not a dumping ground. If you say you are useful, people will see you as being useful.” He added.
