On Monday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) lifted the visa ban on Nigerian travelers following a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.
Another significant outcome of their meeting was the immediate resumption of flight schedules for Etihad Airlines and Emirates Airlines to and from Nigeria, with no further delays.
This agreement was announced in a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity.
According to the statement, the restoration of flight activity and the economic cooperation between the two countries do not require an immediate payment from the Nigerian government. Instead, an agreed framework has been established for significant investments in Nigeria’s economy across various sectors, including defense and agriculture, by the UAE government’s investment arms.
Additionally, a new foreign exchange liquidity program, negotiated jointly by the two governments, will be detailed in the coming weeks.
In conclusion, President Tinubu commended UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his strong friendship and efforts to enhance the relationship between the two countries.