Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, urged foreign nations to relax visa policies, allowing Nigerian businesses to expand and operate abroad.
Speaking in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Idris represented President Tinubu at a meeting with the Nigerian Community alongside the AU Heads Summit.
He stressed that while Nigeria welcomes foreign investors, other countries should reciprocate by facilitating Nigerian businesses seeking global expansion and opportunities.
“Indonesia has 50 companies in Nigeria, yet we have less than five in Indonesia. There should be fair reciprocity,” he said.
Idris raised concerns over Ethiopia’s cancellation of e-visas for Nigerians, assuring the issue would be addressed through diplomatic engagements.
Visa policies should be based on mutual respect, ensuring that Nigerians receive similar privileges granted to foreign nationals in Nigeria.
The minister urged Nigerians abroad to maintain good conduct, emphasizing that their behavior influences global perceptions of Nigeria and its citizens.
He highlighted the Tinubu administration’s achievements, including $1.07 billion in investments for pharmaceutical manufacturing to boost Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Idris mentioned that N32 billion had been disbursed through the Students Loan Scheme, ensuring education accessibility for underprivileged Nigerian students.
Security forces neutralized 8,000 terrorists, rescued 8,000 kidnapped victims, and arrested 11,600 suspects, significantly improving national security and stability.
Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, once a hub for criminal activities, has been cleared, providing commuters with safety and improved travel experiences.
Reforms are challenging but progressing steadily toward economic prosperity, fulfilling the administration’s commitment to national development and growth.
Muideen Alimi, President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, emphasized Nigeria’s vital role in intra-African trade and economic cooperation.
He advocated for Nigeria’s strong presence in the proposed African Central Bank and the African Remittance Agency for financial integration.
The meeting was attended by top officials, including Nigerians in Diaspora Commission’s Director General, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and government representatives.
