Lazi Writa
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially lifted the year-long visa ban that had been imposed on Nigerian travelers. This exciting news comes after intensive negotiations between Nigeria’s newly inaugurated President, Bola Tinubu, and UAE’s respected leader, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
This significant diplomatic breakthrough was realized during their meeting in the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi earlier this Monday. The Nigerian government has hailed this achievement as “a historic agreement” that not only removes the visa restrictions but also sets the stage for an immediate resumption of flights between these two nations.
The saga of this visa ban began when Emirates Airlines suspended all flights to Nigeria due to complications in repatriating funds. This decision, which had adversely affected both business and leisure travelers, has now been reversed thanks to the tireless efforts of President Tinubu and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Ajuri Ngelale, the presidential spokesman for Nigeria, shared this monumental news, stating, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on Monday in Abu Dhabi, have finalized a historic agreement, which has resulted in the immediate cessation of the visa ban placed on Nigerian travelers.”
Furthermore, as a direct result of this historic agreement, both Etihad Airlines and Emirates Airlines will promptly resume their flight schedules into and out of Nigeria. This is a welcome relief for travelers and the aviation industry alike, signaling a return to normalcy in air travel between these two nations.
Dubai’s Emirates airline had long been a favored choice for Nigerian travelers. However, last year’s visa halt had left many puzzled. The ban not only impacted Nigerians but also nationals from 19 other African states, with the reasons behind this move remaining undisclosed.
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