By Akinboye Akinsola
The recent lifting of visa ban between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) started long time ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu picked it from where the engagement stopped during the last administration when Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM visited UAE during which the Nigeria Community in UAE and Students cried out.As part of his 4 Ds foreign Policies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just resolved the visa ban during his trip to UAE yesterday.Here are the several benefits for both countries.1. Strengthened Diplomatic Relations: The lifting of visa restrictions will continue to strengthen diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the UAE. Increased people-to-people interactions can lead to better understanding and cooperation on various issues, including trade, security, and regional stability. It can also pave the way for bilateral agreements and collaborations in areas such as technology, healthcare, and infrastructure.2. Job Opportunities: Easier travel between Nigeria and the UAE can open up more job opportunities for citizens of both countries. Nigerian professionals can explore employment prospects in the UAE, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, construction, finance, and healthcare. Conversely, UAE citizens can find work or business prospects in Nigeria, contributing to economic development and cross-cultural exchange.3. Enhanced Economic Cooperation: Removing visa restrictions promotes increased trade, investment, and business opportunities between Nigeria and the UAE. It encourages businesses from both countries to explore new markets, establish partnerships, and facilitate the exchange of goods and services.4. Cultural and Educational Exchange: The visa-free travel arrangement encourages cultural and educational exchange between Nigeria and the UAE. Students, researchers, and professionals can easily travel between the two countries to pursue educational opportunities, attend conferences, or participate in collaborative projects. This exchange of knowledge and ideas can foster greater understanding and cooperation between the two nations.5. Tourism Boost: Easier travel between Nigeria and the UAE can significantly boost tourism in both directions. Nigerian tourists will find it more convenient to visit popular UAE destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, contributing to the local economy and hospitality industry. Similarly, UAE tourists can explore Nigeria’s diverse culture, wildlife, and tourist sites, promoting growth in the Nigerian tourism sector.So far, the capital importation from the United Arab Emirates totalled $225.1m since a visa ban was placed on Nigeria in October 2022.President Tinubu administration’s “four Ds” policy initiative, anchored on1. Development2. Democracy3. Demography and4. Diaspora geared towards bringing modern solutions to address some complex challenges.The Economic development diplomacy drive and proposals today presented by President Tinubu will bring in billions of U.S. dollars worth of new investments into the Nigerian economy in Agricultural investments, Trade, Service and defense to mention but a few.President Bola Tinubu is at work, Nigeria is Moving, Welcome the Renewed Hope.
Akinsola writes from Nigeria.
