When Nigerian travellers thought they could pack their bags for a sunny getaway in the UAE, a twist in the tale leaves them scratching their heads. A document shared on social media sparked hopes of a lifted visa ban from Nigeria, only to be dashed hours later by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga.
A Rollercoaster of Rumours & The Tweet That Started It All
You posted the fake document as a proceed of “Tinubu”s diplomacy” according to you to mislead people and then turned back and issued a disclaimer. That’s an irresponsible one from you, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
You even mislead the entire mainstream media. How could you be so… pic.twitter.com/d3POPVmT2E
— 𝘿𝙧 𝙀𝙡 𝙈𝙤, 𝙋𝙨𝙮𝘿 (@Drelmoatiku) March 5, 2024
In a whirlwind of excitement, Onanuga took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to announce the apparent lifting of visa restrictions for Nigerians. Cheers rang out nationwide as travellers eagerly anticipated their next adventure in the UAE.
Reality Check On Visa Ban On Nigeria By UAE
UAE has not resumed visa issuance to Nigerians. The document in circulation is not authorized either by the Nigerian government or the UAE.
— Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) March 5, 2024
But alas, the joy was short-lived. Onanuga quickly pumped the brakes on the celebration, clarifying that the UAE was yet to lift the visa ban. Cue collective sighs of disappointment from Nigerian jet-setters hoping to jet off to Dubai’s dazzling skyline.
This visa saga is just the latest twist in a diplomatic tango between the UAE and Nigeria. The ban, which initially affected citizens from approximately 20 African nations, including Nigeria, has been a source of tension and controversy since its imposition in October 2022.
Also Read: UAE Lifts Visa Ban On Nigerian Citizens; Emirates & Etihad Airways To Resume Flights
The Waiting Game Continues
As Nigerian travellers anxiously await further developments, the UAE and Nigeria remain at a standstill, locked in a diplomatic stalemate over flight allocations and travel restrictions. With hopes dashed and dreams of desert escapades put on hold, it’s back to the drawing board for those yearning for a taste of UAE hospitality.
The rollercoaster ride of visa uncertainties serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of international travel. In a world where borders can open and close at the drop of a hat, it pays to stay informed and expect the unexpected.
While the road to visa-free travel may be fraught with twists and turns, one thing remains certain, the spirit of adventure knows no bounds. So, until the day comes when Nigerian travellers can once again roam the streets of Dubai with ease, let’s keep our passports close and our dreams of desert sunsets alive.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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First Published: March 06, 2024 12:14 PM