Turkish ambassador raises visa access concerns during Abuja visit as both countries push for stronger economic and diplomatic cooperation.

Turkey has formally requested inclusion in Nigeria’s electronic visa (e-visa) system as part of efforts to simplify travel procedures, boost business mobility, and strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.

The request was made on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mehmet Poroy, to the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at the Ministry of Interior headquarters in Abuja.

Ambassador Poroy drew attention to the logistical difficulties Turkish nationals currently face when applying for Nigerian visas. He explained that the absence of a Nigerian visa office in Istanbul compels applicants to travel to Ankara, a process he described as costly and inconvenient. According to him, extending Nigeria’s e-visa platform to Turkish citizens would remove these barriers and encourage greater participation of Turkish investors, traders, and entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s economy.

He added that improved visa access would support increased attendance at trade fairs, business meetings, and investment projects across Nigeria. The ambassador also raised concerns over conflicting information about Nigerian visa requirements for Turkish nationals and requested official written clarification to ensure consistency and proper guidance for applicants.

In his response, Minister Tunji-Ojo welcomed the proposal and stressed that restricting genuine business travelers does not serve the interests of either country. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, constructive engagement, and continuous reforms in visa administration, while emphasizing the country’s openness to credible international investors and partners.

The discussions took place against the backdrop of expanding diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Turkey, underpinned by longstanding historical and cultural connections. Ambassador Poroy also acknowledged recent improvements in visa processing for Nigerian business travelers to Turkey, noting that applications are now handled domestically with processing times of approximately three to four days.

Both parties expressed optimism that ongoing dialogue would help eliminate administrative bottlenecks and further promote people-to-people exchanges, trade, and investment. While no immediate decision was announced on Turkey’s inclusion in Nigeria’s e-visa system, officials confirmed that consultations would continue to identify practical solutions for smoother travel between both nations.

The move is widely viewed as a positive step toward deeper economic cooperation, particularly as Nigeria’s e-visa system—fully operational since 2025—continues to modernize and streamline entry procedures for eligible foreign nationals.

Stay Updated with the Latest News – Follow Daily Observer on X (formerly Twitter) @DailyObserverNG