The Director General, Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Zahrah Mustapha Audu, has assured foreign investors that the concerns raised by the recent cancellation of Visa on Arrival (VOA) policy by the Nigerian government would be addressed soon.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had at the weekend, revealed plans by the Federal Government of Nigeria, to discontinue its visa-on-arrival policy, describing it as “unsustainable” and a potential security risk.
20250224 – PEBEC Press Release on VOA Policy
Visa-on-arrival is a privilege often given to frequently travelled high networth investors and visitors unable to obtain visas in their countries of residence due to the absence of Nigerian missions or embassies in those countries.
The announcement by the Minister has elicited some fears and concerns amongst beneficiaries and prospective investors in Nigeria.
However, in a statement signed on Monday by the DG of Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Audu, the foreign investors were assured of intervention by the agency, with the view to address the security issues raised thereof.
“We understand the anxiety this has caused among the foreign community and would like to assure all stakeholders that PEBEC is actively engaging with the Minister of Interior to find a solution.
“Our primary objective is to strengthen security around the VOA process while maintaining the policy, which has been instrumental in promoting tourism, trade, and investment in Nigeria. We believe that with collaboration and dialogue, we can address the security issues identified and achieve a secured and efficient VOA process that benefits all parties involved.
“PEBEC has a proven track record of driving reforms to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria. We have implemented various initiatives to simplify procedures, reduce bottlenecks, and create a more conducive atmosphere for businesses to thrive.
“We urge the foreign community to remain calm and confident in our ability to resolve this matter. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria remains an attractive destination for investors, tourists, and businesses alike.” The Director General stated.
The Minister of Interior had, during the weekend, said Nigeria government would replace the Visa-On-Arrival policy with landing and exit cards, which prospective visitors will pre-fill before coming into and leaving the country.
PIAK
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