A new visa reciprocity policy for citizens of the United States of America will go into effect on March 1, 2023, as directed by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Following approval for the implementation of the new Bilateral Consular Policy Agreements between the governments of Nigeria and the United States of America, the directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
The agreements include, among others: in accordance with Section 30 of the Immigration Act of 2015, the reciprocity of tourist visa validity for five (5) years for American citizens; and a three-year extension of visa validity for diplomats and government officials traveling between Nigerian and American citizens.
The Nigeria Immigration Service, or NIS, has been given permission by the Minister of Interior to begin implementing the policy on March 1. Number 5 on the list is the most important thing to focus on.
“The United States of America will implement a similar policy for Nigerians seeking Tourist Visas to the United States and for our diplomats and officials visiting the country as part of the Bilateral Agreement. As a result, the United States will extend the validity of Nigerian citizens’ tourist visas to five (5) years,” Aregbesola stated in a statement released yesterday by his Media Adviser, Sola Fasure.
The Minister remarked, Nigerians will recall President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2020 introduction of the new Nigeria Visa Policy (NPV), which promotes tourism among other things. The Short Visit Visa (F5A) includes the Tourist Visa. Mr. President’s goal of increasing cultural exchange and business between the two countries is reflected in this policy.
In addition, the Minister promised a secure environment prior to, during, and following the elections and exhorted all registered voters in Nigeria to vote today. He made the observation that in order to exercise their civil democratic right to vote in the Presidential and National Assembly elections, it is essential that everyone work together to ensure that the exercise is peaceful, secure, and successful.
Only the polling units have seen any internal movement. Individuals will also not be able to cross national borders. At the polling places, on the streets, and at the borders, law enforcement agencies are obligated to employ all available means to protect lives and property. Every threat must be contained, and assurances must be given regarding the safety of people’s lives and property as well as the election’s success.
“The Central Government has set up all fundamental means to guarantee the security of lives and property and the outcome of the decisions. Nigerians are urged to behave calmly, to cast their ballots quietly, and to avoid any action that could jeopardize this democratic festival.