In an ambitious move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s global economic presence, the Federal Government has urged foreign nations to adopt a more liberal visa regime for Nigerian businesses seeking expansion opportunities abroad. This call for visa reforms was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, during a significant meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government Assembly.
Idris, representing President Bola Tinubu at the session, delivered a powerful message underscoring the need for reciprocal policies that would allow Nigerian companies the same opportunities to operate abroad as foreign businesses enjoy in Nigeria. In a statement issued by his media assistant, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister highlighted the growing disparity in international trade relations and stressed that Nigerian businesses are often at a disadvantage in countries with restrictive visa policies.
Call for Fair Trade and Investment Environment
During his address, Idris noted that while many foreign companies—particularly from Indonesia—flourish in Nigeria, the same is not true for Nigerian firms seeking to expand abroad. “Last year, I represented Nigeria in Indonesia, where I learned that over 50 major Indonesian companies are successfully operating in Nigeria. Yet, we have fewer than five Nigerian companies operating in Indonesia,” he remarked.
This uneven playing field, according to the minister, necessitates a call for more liberal visa policies for Nigerian firms. He further emphasized that if foreign companies are eager to capitalize on Nigeria’s large population and growing consumer base, it is only fair that Nigerian companies receive similar opportunities abroad.
“The principles of reciprocity should guide visa policies. If they wish to trade with us, then they must allow us to access their markets and work freely in their countries,” Idris asserted.
Ethiopia’s Controversial Visa Decision
The issue of visa policies took a more urgent tone when the minister addressed Ethiopia’s recent cancellation of its e-visa and visa-on-arrival options for Nigerian citizens. Idris expressed deep concern over this decision, which he described as an impediment to bilateral relations between the two nations. He assured the Nigerian community in Ethiopia that the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs would engage diplomatically with the Ethiopian government to resolve the issue.
While acknowledging the frustration expressed by Nigerians in Ethiopia, Idris reiterated the importance of mutual respect and reciprocity in international relations. “We must work to ensure that visa policies are balanced and mutually beneficial,” he remarked.
The cancellation of visa-on-arrival options has caused considerable inconvenience for Nigerian travelers, including businesspeople and tourists. Many have criticized the decision as unfair and harmful to the growing economic ties between Nigeria and Ethiopia.
Promoting a Positive Image Abroad
In addition to addressing visa-related concerns, Idris took the opportunity to remind Nigerians living abroad about their crucial role in representing the country. He urged the diaspora community to act as ambassadors, demonstrating good conduct and responsibility wherever they reside. “You are the face of Nigeria in foreign lands. If you do not conduct yourselves well, there is no way the country will be respected abroad,” he stated.
This call for responsible citizenship aligns with the government’s broader efforts to improve Nigeria’s international reputation and promote its economic and cultural contributions to the global community.
Nigeria’s Economic Reforms and Investments
Turning to Nigeria’s internal progress, Idris highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to boost the economy and foster a favorable environment for foreign investment. In recent months, Nigeria secured a landmark $1.07 billion investment for the establishment of drug and pharmaceutical manufacturing industries. This development, according to the minister, marks a significant step towards Nigeria’s medical industrialization, positioning the country as a key player in pharmaceutical production across Africa.
“This investment is not only about creating jobs and reducing our dependency on foreign imports, but it is also a crucial element in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare sector,” Idris explained.
Additionally, the minister pointed out that the Nigerian government had successfully disbursed approximately N32 billion in student loans to support higher education. This initiative, launched under the government’s Student Loan Scheme, aims to ensure that no student is denied access to education due to financial constraints.
Tackling Security Challenges
Idris also took the opportunity to reassure the public about the administration’s commitment to enhancing national security. He noted that in 2024, Nigeria’s security forces neutralized 8,000 terrorists and bandits, rescued 8,000 kidnapped victims, and made 11,600 arrests. He singled out the successful clearance of criminal elements along the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, a notorious route plagued by criminal activity in previous years.
The improved security situation along this major highway has led to greater peace of mind for commuters, providing them with a safer and more reliable route for travel.
Intra-African Trade and Investment Initiatives
In his address to Nigerians in Ethiopia, Idris also touched on the importance of intra-African trade, calling for stronger economic integration across the continent. The President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, Mr. Muideen Alimi, revealed that a workshop was underway in collaboration with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to enhance economic development through intra-African trade. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to encourage Nigerian businesses to explore opportunities across the African continent.
Alimi also urged Nigerians to support efforts to establish an African Central Bank and strengthen the African Remittance Agency, which will play a vital role in enhancing economic growth within the continent. These initiatives reflect Nigeria’s vision of being at the forefront of Africa’s economic transformation.
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