Turkey has formally requested to be included in Nigeria’s electronic visa (e-visa) system, aiming to simplify travel and promote stronger business and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The request came during a courtesy visit by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
The visit was confirmed in a statement released by the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Mary Ali.
Ambassador Poroy highlighted the challenges faced by Turkish nationals seeking Nigerian visas, noting that the absence of a Nigerian visa office in Istanbul forces applicants to travel to Ankara for processing.
He said, “Inclusion in Nigeria’s e-visa system would greatly enhance business mobility and make it easier for Turkish investors and traders to visit Nigeria.”
He also requested clear guidance for Turkish businesspeople, citing conflicting information about visa requirements.
“Turkish businesspeople attending trade fairs, investment meetings, and other commercial activities need accurate information to plan their travel efficiently,” he added.
Responding to the ambassador, Minister Tunji-Ojo assured that Nigeria is committed to supporting genuine business travellers.
“Restricting access to legitimate Nigerian or Turkish investors is not in the interest of either country. Our ministry is committed to transparency, dialogue, and continuous improvement in visa administration,” he said.
The meeting also touched on the recognition of Nigerian marriage certificates abroad.
Tunji-Ojo clarified that “all marriage certificates issued under Nigerian law are constitutionally valid and should not require additional verification by foreign missions.”
Ambassador Poroy welcomed the clarification and promised to review the Embassy’s procedures to ensure compliance, while both parties agreed to continue engagement to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations.
Nigeria and Turkey have in recent years expanded trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges, and visa facilitation is seen as a key step toward further collaboration.
