In a passionate appeal for economic fairness, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for a more open and reciprocal visa policy for Nigerian companies seeking to establish businesses overseas.
Speaking in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on the 16th of February, 2025, Idris made this case while representing President Bola Tinubu at a high-level meeting with the executive members of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, held on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government Assembly.
He underscored the need for balanced international trade relations, emphasizing that while Nigeria continues to welcome foreign investors with open arms, it is only just for other nations to extend similar privileges to Nigerian enterprises looking to expand.
“Last year, I was representing Nigeria in Indonesia and found out that about 50 big Indonesian companies are operating in Nigeria, but we do not have five Nigerian companies operating in Indonesia,” Idris noted. “If they want to trade in our country because of our population and purchasing power, then there should be a reciprocal arrangement where Nigerians also get their rightful place.
The visa issue remains a major challenge in places like Ethiopia and Indonesia, where obtaining visas for Nigerians is unnecessarily complex.”
Tackling Visa Restrictions and Diplomatic Hurdles
Addressing concerns over Ethiopia’s recent cancellation of its e-visa and Visa-on-Arrival options for Nigerian travelers, Idris assured attendees that the matter would be taken up with the Minister of Foreign Affairs for urgent diplomatic resolution. He explained that visa policies worldwide are largely based on reciprocity, stressing that Nigeria expects the same ease of entry it offers foreign nationals.
“Every relationship with other countries is reciprocal. So if we give them Visa-on-Arrival, there is no reason why they should not give us Visa-on-Arrival,” he asserted.
He further urged Nigerians living abroad to uphold good conduct and integrity, reminding them that their behavior significantly influences Nigeria’s global image.
“We don’t allow bad people to represent us, and that’s where you come in. You are the ones living here, and if you don’t represent Nigeria well, we will not be viewed positively. The occasional visits of the President or any minister cannot change perceptions—only those who live here can,” he said.
Showcasing the Tinubu Administration’s Achievements
Beyond visa concerns, Idris took the opportunity to update the Nigerian community on the Tinubu administration’s progress in economic revitalization, security enhancement, and investor confidence.
He revealed that Nigeria has recently secured approximately $1.07 billion in Foreign Direct Investment for pharmaceutical manufacturing, marking a major leap in the country’s medical industrialization efforts.
“This investment is the beginning of Nigeria’s transformation into a key player in pharmaceutical production. It will enhance local drug manufacturing, reduce dependency on imports, create jobs, and strengthen our healthcare sector,” he said.
On education, the Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to making higher learning accessible, stating that in less than 250 days, about N32 billion had been disbursed under the Students Loan Scheme to ensure financial constraints do not hinder academic pursuits.
Security Wins and Infrastructure Development
Addressing security, Idris revealed staggering statistics that underscore the government’s fight against crime and terrorism.
“In 2024 alone, security forces neutralized 8,000 terrorists and bandits, rescued 8,000 kidnapped victims, and made 11,600 arrests,” he disclosed.
The once-dreaded Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, notorious for bandit attacks, has now been cleared of criminal elements, offering commuters much-needed safety and relief.
Acknowledging the challenges that come with reforms, he reassured Nigerians that the country is on a steady path to prosperity.
“Reform is always difficult, but we are making gradual progress towards the prosperity that the President promised,” he affirmed.
Diaspora Collaboration for Economic Growth
The President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, Mr. Muideen Alimi, expressed the community’s commitment to fostering economic development through intra-African trade.
READ ALSO: Alleged N109b fraud: EFCC denies ex-AGF Idris’ claim of non-prosecution agreement
He called for Nigeria’s support in establishing the African Central Bank and strengthening the African Remittance Agency, which would benefit Nigerians across the continent.
The meeting was graced by the Director General of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, alongside other top government officials, further highlighting Nigeria’s dedication to engaging with its citizens abroad and addressing their concerns.
With diplomatic efforts in motion and ambitious reforms underway, Idris’ address served as both a rallying call and a reassurance that Nigeria remains committed to creating opportunities for its people, both at home and abroad.