FG advocates fair visa policies to strengthen Nigeria’s global trade influence
By Kunle Sanni
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for a more equitable visa regime to support Nigerian businesses seeking to expand internationally.
Speaking in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Sunday, Idris represented President Bola Tinubu at a meeting with the executive members of the Nigerian community in Ethiopia, held on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government.
He emphasized the importance of reciprocity in global trade and investment, noting that while Nigeria continues to provide a conducive environment for foreign businesses, Nigerian companies should receive similar opportunities abroad.
“Last year, I represented Nigeria in Indonesia and discovered that around 50 major Indonesian companies operate in Nigeria, yet fewer than five Nigerian companies have a presence in Indonesia. If they are drawn to our country due to our large market and purchasing power, then fairness demands that Nigerian businesses receive the same opportunities abroad. However, visa restrictions remain a major challenge, not just in Indonesia but also here in Ethiopia,” he stated.
Idris also addressed concerns over the Ethiopian government’s recent cancellation of e-visas and Visa-on-Arrival options for Nigerian travelers. He assured the Nigerian community that the issue would be escalated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for diplomatic resolution.
Acknowledging the complexities of visa policies, the Minister noted that such regulations are often shaped by reciprocity. He stressed the need for balanced, mutually beneficial agreements to facilitate smoother international travel and business expansion.
“Every international relationship is based on reciprocity. If we offer Visa-on-Arrival to their citizens, there is no reason why we should not receive the same treatment,” he added.
Idris further urged Nigerians abroad to uphold good conduct and responsible citizenship, as their actions directly influence global perceptions of the country.
“We don’t allow bad actors to define us. You, as members of the Nigerian community, play a crucial role in shaping how our country is perceived. Diplomatic visits alone cannot change perceptions—it is the people on the ground who make the real impact,” he said.
Providing an update on the Tinubu Administration’s policy direction, Idris highlighted key achievements, including efforts to revamp the economy, improve infrastructure, tackle insecurity, and restore investor confidence.
He announced that Nigeria had recently secured approximately $1.07 billion in Foreign Direct Investment for the establishment of pharmaceutical manufacturing industries. This investment, he explained, is a significant step toward Nigeria’s medical industrialization, enhancing local drug production, reducing import dependency, creating jobs, and strengthening the healthcare sector.
In addition, the Minister revealed that within 250 days, about N32 billion had been disbursed under the Students Loan Scheme, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to quality education.
