Following the approval for the implementation of the new Bilateral Consular Policy Agreements between the governments of Nigeria and the United States of America, the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, issued the directive.
Among the agreements are reciprocity of five (5) year tourist visa validity for American citizens pursuant to Section 30 of the Immigration Act, 2015; and extension of visa validity to three (3) years for diplomats and government officials between Nigerians and Americans.
As a result, the Minister of Interior has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, to begin enforcing the policy on March 1. The main focus is item number five on the list.
“As part of the Bilateral Agreement, the United States of America will implement a similar policy for Nigerians wishing to travel on Tourist Visas to the United States and for our diplomats and officials visiting the country. The United States will thus extend Tourist Visa Validity for Nigerian citizens to five (5) years,” Aregbesola’s statement by his Media Adviser, Sola Fasure.
The Minister also urged all registered voters in Nigeria to vote today, promising a safe and secure environment before, during, and after the elections. He stated that in exercising their civil democratic right to vote in the Presidential and National Assembly elections, it is critical that all hands be on deck to ensure that the process is peaceful, safe, and successful.
"Internal movement has been limited to polling units. There will also be no cross-border movement of people. Law enforcement agencies are required to use all available means to protect people and property at polling places, on the streets, and at borders. Every threat must be contained, and assurances must be given for the safety of people and property, as well as the success of the elections.
"The Federal Government has put in place all necessary measures to ensure the security of lives and property and the success of the elections. Nigerians are urged to be calm and peaceful in their conduct, to vote quietly, and to avoid any act that could jeopardize this democratic festival."
The Minister added: “Nigerians will recall that President Muhammadu Buhari launched the new Nigeria Visa Policy (NPV) in 2020, which amongst other things promotes tourism. Tourist Visa falls under the Short Visit Visa (F5A) category. This policy is in line with Mr. President’s desire to boost cultural exchange and business between both nations.”
He noted that in exercising their civil democratic right for the presidential and National Assembly elections, it was important that all hands should be on deck to make the exercise peaceful, safe, and successful.
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