The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced that the visa dispute between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been resolved.
Keyamo stated that the UAE government will soon lift the travel ban that has been preventing Nigerians from visiting the UAE, particularly Dubai.
He made this announcement on Monday during a welcome dinner for delegates attending the International Air Transport Association’s 80th Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in Dubai, UAE.
The UAE had imposed the visa ban on Nigeria due to several diplomatic disputes. President Bola Tinubu intervened in August 2023 to address the issues surrounding visa issuance and the standoff with Emirates Airlines, which had ceased flights to Nigeria.
At the AGM, where over 2000 delegates were present, Keyamo entered the hall with Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum, to applause.
Speaking to journalists at the event, Keyamo confirmed that the issues related to the UAE's visa denial for Nigerians had been resolved and that the final steps were being taken to lift the visa ban.
He said, “The visa issue has been resolved; only the official announcement remains. They want to finalize the details. The announcement will be made in a couple of weeks.”
Keyamo also highlighted that his visit to Dubai aimed to maintain good relationships with other countries.
He said, “The UAE is a significant partner for Nigeria. Many Nigerians have substantial investments here. We are working to make it easier for the millions of Nigerians who have urged us to reopen this route and simplify the visa application process. My reception here shows how much they value Nigeria.”
“I traveled with the ruler of Dubai, the Minister, and the head of Emirates Group, which shows their respect for us. They are reopening their doors to us and rebuilding trust. I want to thank them and assure that we will continue from here.”
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