IN recent years, several countries have imposed travel restrictions or bans on Nigerians due to various reasons, ranging from security concerns to immigration issues.
These restrictions have sparked debates about fairness, immigration policies, and Nigeria’s international reputation.
While outright bans are relatively uncommon, some nations have tightened their visa policies or placed other limits on Nigerian travellers.
Here’s a look at some of the countries that have either imposed bans or made it harder for Nigerians to visit.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE is one of the most high-profile countries to restrict Nigerians. In 2022, the UAE stopped issuing visas to Nigerian citizens, citing security concerns and immigration violations.
This move affected Nigerians hoping to travel to popular cities like Dubai for business, tourism, and employment.
The visa ban has caused significant issues, particularly for Nigerians with established businesses or family ties in the UAE.
Although diplomatic talks are ongoing, the restrictions remain in place, largely linked to rising reports of crime involving Nigerian nationals and visa overstays.
- Malaysia
Malaysia has made it more difficult for Nigerians to obtain visas, especially for long-term stays. While there is no official ban, Nigerians have reported facing tougher visa conditions, particularly when it comes to renewing visas or obtaining student or work visas.
Nigerian expatriates in Malaysia have voiced concerns over stricter immigration controls and a perceived bias against them, although the Malaysian government has not made an official statement on the matter.
- South Africa
While not an official ban, South Africa has had a complicated relationship with Nigerian immigrants, especially following the 2019 xenophobic attacks in which Nigerians were targeted.
These incidents strained relations between the two countries, prompting Nigeria to temporarily recall its ambassador.
Although diplomatic efforts have since improved the situation, there are still reports of Nigerian travellers facing difficulties with visas and stricter scrutiny when entering South Africa.
Officially, South Africa denies any targeted actions against Nigerians, but the perception of bias persists.
- Turkey
Turkey has become increasingly strict about issuing visas to Nigerians, particularly for work and student purposes.
Many Nigerians have reported frequent visa denials, although there is no formal ban in place. Turkish authorities have expressed concerns over security and illegal migration, leading to tougher visa application processes for Nigerian nationals.
While Turkey maintains diplomatic ties with Nigeria, the stricter visa policies have made it harder for Nigerians to pursue education or employment in the country.
- Lebanon
Lebanon imposed a temporary ban on the entry of Nigerians in 2020 following reports of abuse and trafficking of Nigerian domestic workers.
Many Nigerians, especially women, were lured to Lebanon with promises of work, only to face exploitation and harsh working conditions.
The temporary ban was aimed at curbing human trafficking, though it also reflected broader concerns about the treatment of Nigerian migrants in Lebanon.
The ban has since been lifted, but relations between the two countries remain cautious, with stricter monitoring of Nigerian travellers.
- Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has imposed restrictions on Nigerians, particularly those seeking work opportunities. The country has tightened visa requirements for unskilled workers, responding to issues such as illegal migration and overstays.
Additionally, Saudi authorities have increased oversight of Nigerian pilgrims attending the Hajj, with stricter visa regulations and compliance monitoring.
Although not an official ban, these measures have made it more challenging for Nigerians to work or live in the country.
- Kenya
Kenya has occasionally imposed visa restrictions on Nigerians, including a temporary halt in visa issuance in 2021 due to concerns over illegal activities involving some Nigerian nationals.
While the restriction was temporary, it highlighted Kenya’s firm stance on immigration control and its willingness to act against perceived threats.
Visa services for Nigerians have since resumed, but the episode underscores the growing trend of African nations imposing restrictions on each other due to security or immigration concerns.
- Seychelles
Seychelles, known for its tourism and picturesque landscapes, also placed restrictions on Nigerian travellers in 2023.
While not an outright ban, the country stopped issuing visas on arrival to Nigerians, tightening entry requirements.
This decision was linked to concerns about Nigerian nationals overstaying visas and issues related to illegal migration.
Nigerians now face a more difficult process when attempting to visit Seychelles, with stricter visa conditions and heightened scrutiny during travel.
Source: businesselitesafrica.com
Eighteen-Eleven Media