By Mariam Abeeb
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its strong commitment to resolving the visa dispute with the United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE) through diplomatic engagement.
The government also reiterated its unwavering commitment to strengthening longstanding cordial diplomatic relations with the governments of both countries.
This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
He said the reassurance followed recent adjustments in visa issuance policies affecting Nigerian citizens by both countries.
According to Onanuga, relevant government agencies are actively engaging with their counterparts to address the concerns through appropriate channels.
“The United States Government has officially communicated that its decision was based on two principal factors: the current rate of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals and the need for reliable access to their records.
“It further explained that the visa policy adjustment is part of its global visa reciprocity process which is routinely reviewed and subject to change, including the number of permitted entries and validity durations.”
President Bola Tinubu, he said, had directed all federal agencies to comply fully with international obligations and strengthen consular identity verification systems.
“The President calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and to uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those jurisdictions,” Onanuga said.
Regarding new visa requirements for UAE transit visas, Onanuga clarified that no formal notice had been received from the Emirati government.(NAN)
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