Turkey Expands Visa Access for Nigerians Amid Rising Economic and Cultural Engagements

 

Efforts to bolster diplomatic and economic relations between Turkey and Nigeria have taken a significant step forward, as the Turkish government has announced a strategic overhaul of its visa issuance framework for Nigerian citizens. This move, aimed at enhancing travel, trade, and cultural exchanges, underscores Turkey’s growing interest in deepening its footprint in West Africa’s largest economy.

Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, revealed during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja that the current visa application process—limited to Lagos and Abuja—would soon be expanded. Plans are already in motion to establish additional visa application centers in Nigeria’s eastern and northern regions. These developments are tailored to ease access for both tourists and business travelers, signaling a notable shift in Turkey’s diplomatic posture toward Nigeria.

Ambassador Poroy emphasized that the surge in travel between the two nations, bolstered by over 16 direct weekly flights, has made the visa expansion a necessary and timely intervention. According to him, facilitating a more accessible and efficient visa process aligns with broader diplomatic goals of enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The push for a more seamless travel process is part of a broader ambition by the Turkish government to elevate its trade volume with Nigeria to $5 billion. Poroy stressed Nigeria’s strategic value within the African economic landscape, pointing out the increased interaction between citizens and businesses from both countries. “We are witnessing a growing level of interest and engagement between Turkey and Nigeria,” he noted. “To support this momentum, we are committed to removing existing barriers, especially in travel and business access.”

Beyond economic diplomacy, cultural initiatives are also playing a central role in fostering stronger ties. Poroy highlighted the global celebration of Turkish Cuisine Week, held from May 21 to 27, as a cultural bridge that not only promotes Turkey’s culinary heritage but also strengthens people-to-people connections. This year’s celebration emphasizes traditional Turkish dishes that have evolved through centuries of cultural fusion and historical influence.

Also present at the briefing was Elif Durdu, Turkey’s Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, who elaborated on Ankara’s broader ambitions for the African continent. She pointed out that Turkey’s total trade with Africa currently stands at approximately $40 billion, and Nigeria remains a pivotal partner in the plan to expand this figure.

Bilateral trade between the two nations, currently estimated at $1 billion, holds potential for exponential growth. Durdu expressed optimism that the renewed focus on trade facilitation, cultural exchange, and infrastructural investment will serve as a catalyst for future cooperation. “We see significant untapped potential in Nigeria,” she said. “From construction to energy, Turkish companies are already playing an active role. Our goal is to expand and deepen this engagement.”

She further disclosed that Turkish firms have invested roughly $2.8 billion in various infrastructure projects across Nigeria—a figure that illustrates the scope and scale of Turkish economic involvement in the country.

The announcements signal a maturing relationship grounded in mutual benefit. With streamlined visa services and growing investments, both nations appear poised to unlock new opportunities across diverse sectors. The Turkish diplomatic mission expressed confidence that ongoing efforts would yield tangible outcomes, strengthening not just economic metrics, but also cultural and diplomatic bonds.

As Turkey courts a more prominent role in Africa, Nigeria’s position as a regional economic powerhouse makes it a natural focal point. These latest developments reflect a shared commitment to collaboration, and a recognition that meaningful partnerships require both access and mutual respect.