The Federal Government has said it has not received an official communication from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) regarding a new visa policy affecting Nigerian citizens in the issuance of transit and entry visas.
Recently, the UAE reportedly introduced fresh visa limitations for Nigerian nationals, less than a year after both countries resolved a long-standing diplomatic disagreement over visa issuance.
Under the new rules, Nigerian travellers between the ages of 18 and 45 are no longer eligible for tourist visas unless they are accompanied by a sponsor or meet newly outlined conditions.
Additionally, all transit visa applications by Nigerians have been suspended, effectively barring stopovers in the UAE for onward travel.
Travel agents also reported that applicants above 45 years old must now provide a personal six-month bank statement showing a minimum monthly balance of $10,000 (or the naira equivalent) before being considered for a visa.
However, in a statement issued Tuesday by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the Federal Government said it has not received any official notification from the UAE regarding these policy changes.
“Regarding the new conditions for issuing UAE transit visas to Nigerian nationals, the Federal Government notes that it has not received any formal communication from the UAE authorities regarding a revised visa policy,” Onanuga said.
“However, it is observed that visa issuance is currently progressing in a gradual and orderly manner.
“The President appreciates the continued cooperation of the Government of the United Arab Emirates, which has remained constructive and engaged with Nigerian authorities. Any genuine concerns raised are being addressed through the appropriate channels, in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration.”
Tinubu, according to Onanuga, however, assures all Nigerians that his administration will continue to pursue the best possible outcomes for citizens abroad, ensuring that Nigerians can travel, work, and live with dignity and respect in any part of the world.
