Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has concluded his working visit to the UAE with a number of key agreements, including resumption of flights, facilitating investments worth billions and normalising relations between the two countries.
Following the visit, the president informed of the UAE’s widely-welcomed move to lift a visa ban on Nigerian travellers to the country. Taking to X, Tinubu tweeted: “Together, we are committed to building bridges and fostering a friendship that stands the test of time.”
He highlighted the initiation of “a new era of collaboration” between Nigeria and the UAE, shining light on five agreements reached following meticulous discussions during the tour. The leader talked about the lifting of the visa ban, in addition to others.
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Following a row over funding, Emirates Airlines suspended flights to the African nation in September last year. Tinubu’s UAE trip, however, concluded with an immediate resumption of flight schedules into and out of Nigeria by both Etihad and Emirates Airlines.
As part of the negotiations, this restoration of flight activity will not involve any immediate payment by the Nigerian government, according to Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria. Meanwhile, discussions also included investments.
“An agreed framework for new investments worth several billions of US dollars into the Nigerian economy by the UAE government, covering multiple sectors including defense and agriculture,” President Tinubu further mentioned on X.
In addition, he also highlighted a joint, new foreign exchange liquidity programme between the two countries, while underscoring a commitment to normalise Nigeria-UAE ties. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has also expressed his hope to reinforce bilateral relations.
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The meeting was held at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. The UAE leader congratulated his Nigerian counterpart on assuming the presidency earlier this year and wished him success in leading the African nation to further progress and prosperity.
Nigeria and the UAE share a strong partnership that’s built on support, strong bilateral trade and a Common Outlook spanning more than 40 years. The Emirates has already executed a number of projects in Nigeria, covering key areas such as healthcare, education and pure drinking water.
Earlier this year, headlines covered the prominent Minna-Bida Road project that’s expected to stimulate commercial activities and improve transport links between the main cities in Nigeria. Abu Dhabi Fund For Development has allocated $45 million to support the project.
The agreement is believed to have marked the beginning of a new partnership with Nigeria, further expanding ADFD’s development activity in Africa. The project holds tremendous potential to reduce transport costs and create employment opportunities for the locals.
