By Adejayan Gbenga Gsong

The Federal Government has directed the full implementation of a new visa reciprocity policy for citizens of the United States of America.

The government said the policy takes effect from March 1, 2023.

The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, issued the directive following the approval for the implementation of the new Bilateral Consular Policy Agreements between the governments of Nigeria and the United States of America.

Aregbesola said the agreement included reciprocity of five (5) year tourist visa validity for American Citizens pursuant to Section 30 of the Immigration Act, 2015.

“Extension of visa validity to three (3) years for Diplomats and government officials between the citizens of Nigeria and the United States of America,” the Minister added according to a statement signed by Aregbesola Media aide, Mr Sola Fasure.

The statement reads: “Consequently, the Minister of Interior has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, to start the implementation of the policy from 1st March 2023.

“Nigerians will recall that President Muhammadu Buhari launched the new Nigeria Visa Policy (NPV) in 2020, which amongst other things promote tourism. Tourist Visa falls under the Short Visit Visa (F5A) category. This policy is in line with Mr. President’s desire to boost cultural exchange and business between both nations.

“As part of the Bilateral Agreement, the United States of America will implement a similar policy for Nigerians wishing to travel on Tourist Visas to the United States and for our diplomats and officials visiting the country. The United States will thus extend Tourist Visa Validity for Nigerian citizens to five (5) years.”