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ABUJA, Nigeria (NAN)- The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has advocated for a more open visa system for Nigerian businesses looking to set up operations abroad.
The minister made this statement in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he represented President Bola Tinubu during a meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian community in Ethiopia.
According to a statement from the minister's Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim, the meeting took place on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of African Union Heads of State and Government.
Idris pointed out that it is essential for other nations to reciprocate Nigeria's hospitality in creating a conducive environment for international companies to invest and operate.
“During my trip to Indonesia last year, I discovered that around 50 large Indonesian firms are active in Nigeria, while we have fewer than five Nigerian businesses functioning in Indonesia.
“If they wish to enter our market, attracted by our population and purchasing power, there must be a reciprocal agreement that allows Nigerians similar opportunities,” he stated.
Regarding the Ethiopian government's decision to revoke e-visa and visa-on-arrival provisions for Nigerian citizens, Idris assured that the issue would be escalated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for appropriate diplomatic dialogue.
While recognizing the grievances expressed by Nigerians residing in Ethiopia, the minister highlighted that visa regulations among countries are generally based on reciprocity principles.
He underscored the necessity for balanced and mutually advantageous agreements.
Idris also encouraged Nigerians living overseas to consistently exhibit good behavior and responsible citizenship to enhance Nigeria's image globally.
“We don’t permit unfavorable representatives, and that’s where you come in.
” You are the representatives here, and if you fail to portray us positively, we cannot expect to be viewed favorably,” he remarked.
The minister mentioned that the current administration has made substantial progress in revitalizing the economy through infrastructure development, addressing insecurity, and restoring investor confidence.
Idris stated that Nigeria recently attracted $1.07 billion in Foreign Direct Investment for the development of drug and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors.
He noted that this pivotal investment signals the start of Nigeria's medical industrialization, positioning the country as a significant player in pharmaceutical production.
He further explained that this initiative would lessen reliance on imports, generate employment, and fortify the healthcare system.
The minister indicated that approximately N32 billion has been allocated to students under the Students Loan Scheme within a span of less than 250 days.
This, he expressed, is aimed at ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder any student from accessing quality education.
Idris reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing the country's security issues, revealing that security forces neutralized 8,000 terrorists and bandits, rescued 8,000 kidnapped individuals, and made 11,600 arrests in 2024.
He also mentioned that the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, once infamous for criminal activity, has been successfully cleared of such elements.
According to him, the improved security conditions on this route have provided considerable relief to travelers.
He acknowledged that reform is inherently challenging and there is a gradual journey toward prosperity for all as promised by the president.
The statement included remarks from Muideen Alimi, President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, who mentioned an ongoing workshop planned in cooperation with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission.
This workshop, he said, aims to enhance economic development through intra-African trade.
He urged Nigerians to endorse the initiative to establish the African Central Bank and to ensure a significant presence in the African Remittance Agency.
