The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced that Nigeria will implement a reciprocal visa policy for foreign nationals. This decision aims to address the lopsided practice where some countries enjoy Nigeria’s visa-on-arrival (VOA) policy for their nationals while imposing challenging visa application processes on Nigerian businesspeople and travelers.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation, emphasizing that the principle of reciprocity in international relations should be observed. He stated that it is unfair for Nigeria to offer visas easily to nationals of certain countries while facing difficulties for Nigerians applying for visas to those countries.
The minister highlighted the burdensome and time-consuming processes Nigerian travelers go through, including paying significant fees for letters of invitation and facing delays in visa processing. He emphasized that the implementation of the reciprocal visa policy would ensure that Nigeria’s VOA policy is extended only to countries that reciprocate the gesture.
A committee has been established to review Nigeria’s passport and visa policy, with the aim of enforcing reciprocity. The committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary, includes members from the Joint Services and the Nigeria Immigration Service. The minister expects the committee to submit its report within two weeks.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stressed the need to reevaluate the current visa-on-arrival policy, ensuring that it aligns with international norms and practices based on reciprocity. The decision aims to protect the interests of Nigerian businesspeople and travelers while fostering equitable diplomatic relationships with other countries.
