By Omoyeni Ojeifo
Long visa waiting periods are creating difficulties for Nigerians seeking to travel abroad, prompting the Federal Government to urge foreign missions to review their visa processes and improve responsiveness.
PerSecondNews Correspondent reports that the Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the call on Thursday in Abuja during an interactive session with heads of diplomatic missions in Nigeria.
“While we fully respect the sovereign right of every country to determine its visa policy, excessively long waiting periods can create considerable difficulties for legitimate travellers, students, businesspersons and families,”she said.
She urged foreign missions to improve efficiency, transparency and responsiveness in visa processing, while noting that Nigeria also has a responsibility to ensure its own diplomatic services meet expected standards.
“We recognize that our own efficiency must justify the confidence we ask you to repose in us. Where there is any concern regarding the authenticity of a Note Verbale, seek clarification directly,”she noted.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu announced renewed attention to outstanding Joint Commissions and Bi-National Commissions, some of which have remained inactive because of administrative and logistical challenges.
She added: “Ultimately, the strength of our diplomatic relationships should be measured not only by the warmth of our engagements, but by the tangible benefits they produce for our respective peoples.”
The minister explained that the mechanisms would be used more effectively to advance cooperation in trade, investment, security, education, technology, health, agriculture and other areas of mutual interest.
“This is not intended to impede access or create unnecessary bureaucracy. Rather, it ensures coordination, consistency and follow-up. The Ministry provides institutional memory, diplomatic expertise and policy context,” she stated.
The Minister also cautioned foreign missions against unguarded comments as the 2027 General Elections draw near, noting that developments in Nigeria have regional and international implications.
“We would not accept unguarded comments, disparaging remarks, or unsolicited lectures on democracy from any country or international organization,” she declared.
Odumegwu- Ojukwu reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to democracy and delivering an election that would be peaceful, free, fair and credible in all ramifications.
While stressing Nigeria’s commitment to strategic autonomy in its international relations, the Minister outlined President Bola Tinubu’s foreign policy priorities, anchored on the Four Ds, Demography, Development, Democracy and Diaspora.
“These pillars place Nigeria and Nigerians at the center of our foreign policy. We remain committed to our neighbours, ECOWAS and Africa, while engaging constructively with the wider international community,”she maintained.
She also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of diplomats, their families, premises and property, in line with its obligations under the Vienna Conventions.
“Nigeria would continue to champion dialogue, multilateralism and peaceful resolution of disputes while deepening engagement through ECOWAS, the African Union, the United Nations, the Commonwealth and other international institutions,” the minister added.
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