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After a two-year diplomatic row, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has lifted the visa restriction on Nigerians and introduced an enhanced document verification process.

This was disclosed in a statement posted by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu.

According to a joint announcement by the governments of Nigeria and the UAE entitled, ‘Resumption of Visa Services for Nigerians Travelling to the UAE’, the visa ban was lifted on March 4, 2024.

The statement said the commencement of visa issuance was a “milestone, reflecting the successful outcome of in-depth talks between the two nations and underscoring, “Our shared commitment to strengthening ties, enhancing cultural exchanges and fostering opportunities for economic and social collaborations.”

“The government of Nigeria and the government of the United Arab Emirates are delighted to announce a pivotal development in our diplomatic relations: the resumption of visa services for Nigerian citizens wishing to visit the UAE, commencing on 4th March 2024,” the document reads in part.

To ensure a seamless and efficient visa application experience, the UAE has introduced an enhanced document verification process.

The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleem Saeed Al-Shamsi highlighted the importance of this updated procedure.

Starting from March 4, 2024, all Nigerian applicants for UAE visas are required to first obtain a document verification number. This essential step according to the UAE is to be completed by visiting the dedicated online Document Verification Hub platform https/documentverificationhub.com).

He said, “We are committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians. The introduction of the Document Verification Number is designed to enhance the integrity of our application process and ensure prompt processing for all applicants.”

According to him, after obtaining the Document Verification Number, applicants can proceed with their visa applications through designated travel agents, after which the process will be completed at the Embassy of the UAE in Abuja or Lagos.

“The announcement signifies our ongoing efforts to enhance the strong ties between the UAE and Nigeria, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of our people,” the statement added.

Recall that the UAE had in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and behavior of some nationals of other countries in 2022 banned nationals of some 20 African countries including Nigeria from entering its capital city, Dubai.

This was followed by a spat between Nigeria and UAE over the procedure for handling travelers entering Dubai during the pandemic which Nigeria frowned at.

The decision among others forced Emirates to exit Nigeria including claims of millions of dollars belonging to the country trapped in Nigeria.