By Deborah Nnamdi
The Turkish government has granted its embassy in Abuja the authority to issue visas directly to Nigerian business travellers without requiring prior clearance from Ankara—a move officials say will significantly strengthen economic cooperation between both countries.
Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, announced the development on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in Abuja. He said the new visa arrangement would streamline travel for entrepreneurs and enhance commercial ties.
Poroy, who arrived in Nigeria six months ago and is yet to formally present his letter of credence, emphasized that expanding economic collaboration remains a top priority for Turkey.
“As you rightly mentioned, economic aspects of our relations are maybe the most important part,” he said, noting that both countries were still “behind the potential” of what they could achieve together.
According to him, the embassy can now issue visas directly to business travellers under specified conditions—an approach he described as an important step toward facilitating smoother interactions between business communities in both countries.
The envoy also revealed that Turkey was finalizing internal processes for the establishment of a Consulate-General in Lagos, which he said would further deepen diplomatic and economic engagement.
Poroy expressed gratitude for the support and services extended to Turkish nationals living in Abuja, describing his posting to Nigeria as promising and “fruitful.”
In his response, Minister Wike welcomed the envoy and pledged the FCT Administration’s readiness to support initiatives that promote stronger commercial ties with Turkey, particularly with major economic hubs such as Istanbul.
“We would like to, particularly in Istanbul, see how we can partner with them to improve economic relations,” Wike said.
He assured that Abuja would continue to provide a secure and enabling environment for legitimate businesses, including those operated by Turkish nationals.
Wike also commended Turkey for simplifying its visa process for Nigerians, saying the new system would ease longstanding challenges for residents and business travellers.
“Now that you have taken steps, we commend that, so businessmen who want to go to Turkey will not find it difficult,” he added.
The ambassador was accompanied on the visit by Hakan Tok, Secretary at the Turkish Embassy.
