UAE Visa Scandal Debunked: FG Clears Air On Alleged Policy Change

The Federal Government on Thursday reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to its longstanding bilateral relationship with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly in areas of tourism development and cultural exchange.

According to iReporter Online, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, provided this assurance in a statement issued in Abuja while addressing recent media claims.

Musawa categorically dismissed a controversial publication titled “A Bitter Irony: UAE’s Sanctions Undermine African Trust After Africa-Backed Win for UN Tourism Role”, describing it as a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s foreign policy position.

According to iReporter Online, she emphasized that the article failed to accurately capture the stance of the Nigerian government and misled the public on diplomatic engagements with the UAE.

She clarified that the Tinubu-led administration has not received any official notification of any change in the UAE’s visa policy towards Nigeria. Visa processing for Nigerian citizens, she noted, continues to proceed without disruption or incident.

According to iReporter Online, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy strongly refuted the assertions made in the article, insisting that they do not reflect the views of the Minister, the Ministry, or the Federal Government.

Musawa reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its cultural and tourism ties with the UAE and called on the public to disregard unverified publications that could damage diplomatic relations.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”