Efforts to make travel between Turkey and Nigeria smoother are gaining momentum as Turkey formally requested to be included in Nigeria’s electronic visa (e-visa) system.
This move comes as both countries look to strengthen business ties and boost diplomatic exchanges.
The request was made during a courtesy visit by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, to Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Challenges for Turkish Applicants Highlighted
According to a statement from the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Mary Ali, Ambassador Poroy highlighted a major hurdle for Turkish citizens.
The absence of a Nigerian visa office in Istanbul forces applicants to travel all the way to Ankara, creating logistical challenges for those seeking Nigerian visas.
The ambassador emphasized that inclusion in Nigeria’s e-visa system would make business travel much easier and encourage more Turkish investors and traders to visit the country.
He also requested clear written guidance on visa arrangements to avoid confusion for Turkish businesspeople attending trade fairs, investment forums, and other commercial activities.
Nigeria’s Response: Openness to Legitimate Business Travel
Minister Tunji-Ojo responded positively, assuring that restricting genuine business travelers benefits neither country.
He stressed Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, continuous dialogue, and ongoing improvements in visa administration.
“Denying visas to legitimate Nigerian or Turkish businesspeople is not in the interest of either country,” the minister said, reaffirming Nigeria’s openness to foreign investors and international business partners.
Clarifying Marriage Certificate Recognition
The discussion also touched on the recognition of Nigerian marriage certificates abroad.
Minister Tunji-Ojo clarified that all marriage certificates issued under Nigerian law are constitutionally valid and do not require additional verification by foreign missions.
Ambassador Poroy acknowledged this clarification and agreed to review the embassy’s procedures.
Both sides committed to sustained engagement to strengthen bilateral cooperation and diplomatic relations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Nigeria and Turkey have been gradually deepening their diplomatic and economic relationship, driven by rising trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
The meeting underscores the importance of visa facilitation as a central pillar of their cooperation, particularly for business travelers seeking smoother access between the two countries.
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