Sunday, September 15, 2024 The Nigerian government has received commendations for its swift resolution of visa challenges faced by foreign delegates attending the upcoming Akwaaba African Travel Market. The organizers of the event expressed gratitude towards the Ministers of Tourism and Interior for their active intervention in addressing the issues. Ikechi Uko, the organizer of Akwaaba and a prominent tourism ambassador, shared his relief in a message to tourism stakeholders via WhatsApp.
He had previously expressed frustrations about the high cost of Nigeria’s online visa-on-arrival system and the lack of visa issuance at certain Nigerian embassies, particularly in East Africa, which forced delegates to use the costly online system. In response to his concerns, the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, personally reached out to Uko, seeking further details about the situation. Following discussions with the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap, the issue was promptly resolved.
“I am delighted to report that the visa challenges for my delegates have been resolved, and the first group of delegates has already arrived. This resolution is not just for my event but will benefit all African visitors to Nigeria,” Uko said. The revised visa measures are expected to streamline travel for many more visitors beyond the Akwaaba event.
Akwaaba, the largest travel expo in West Africa, has long faced difficulties in gaining government support for access, venue, and hosted buyer programs. This intervention marks the first significant support from the government, and the tourism community has expressed its appreciation for this timely action. Nigeria’s visa processes have been under review for some time, with new measures expected to be announced soon.
Complaints about the costly visa-on-arrival system and the absence of visa stickers in Nigerian embassies in certain African countries have persisted among travelers..
