Global Collaboration Vital for Sustainable Growth – President Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed a global audience at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday.  Speaking on the topic “From Climate Imperatives into Economic Prosperity: Bridging Africa with the Global Energy Future,” he emphasized the importance of international cooperation to tackle climate change and build a sustainable future. Tinubu stated that sustainability is not achievable by any one country alone and requires global unity, knowledge exchange, and shared efforts.  He highlighted that addressing climate change presents an economic opportunity, which can reshape Africa’s future and the global energy landscape. PLEASE READE: Pay TV operators have right to fix prices – BON The Nigerian leader reaffirmed his government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.  He detailed Nigeria’s strategies focusing on energy transition, climate resilience, and sustainable development, while also ensuring they align with both local and global objectives.  Nigeria aims to diversify its energy sources, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and invest in renewable energy as part of its national growth plan. Tinubu also discussed Nigeria’s efforts in promoting clean energy through initiatives like Compressed Natural Gas and electric vehicles, as well as using solid minerals for the green energy transition.  The Nigerian government is also implementing climate-smart agricultural practices to improve food security and reduce environmental damage.  Additionally, Nigeria’s National Clean Cooking Policy seeks to advance clean energy for health and socio-economic benefits. Recognizing the impact of environmental challenges such as deforestation and flooding, Tinubu called for international cooperation to address these issues and implement sustainable practices across sectors. PLEASE READ: Joseph Aoun elected Lebanon’s new president  He urged global partners to support Africa’s green economy initiatives, noting that such projects require substantial investment and collaboration. Nigeria has already taken steps towards financing green projects, becoming the first African nation to fund these initiatives through Sovereign Green Bonds.  The third issuance of these bonds is currently in progress. In conclusion, President Tinubu praised the UAE for hosting the event, which brought global leaders together to discuss solutions to the world’s pressing environmental challenges.

190 Nigerians Repatriated From UAE, Land in Abuja Amid Suspension of Travel Ban

The Nigerian government has confirmed the repatriation of 190 Nigerians from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) which made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Zonal Director NEMA North Central, Bashir Idris Garga.  He said the returnees were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at 6am on Tuesday by a combined team of government officials led by NEMA. According to NEMA, “The returnees were profiled and documented by the relevant agencies and sensitised to behave with decorum and responsibility on their return to Nigeria. “The federal government urges all Nigerians, wherever they may be, to act as exemplary ambassadors of their country, upholding the fundamental values of patriotism, rule of law, decency, and integrity.” This comes as the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government on Monday announced that the UAE had lifted its visa ban on Nigerians. The Nigerian government had said it reached an agreement with the UAE that would enable Nigerians to access UAE visas. They had previously imposed a visa restriction on Nigerian citizens in October 2022. Additionally, the Emirates Airlines had suspended its flight operations to Nigeria in November 2022.  

UAE Reopens Visa Access for Nigerian Travelers

Nigerian passport holders can now obtain visas for travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following the lifting of a travel ban, announced by the Federal Government. Minister of Information Mohammed Idris confirmed the agreement on Monday during a briefing with State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.  “Effective from today, July 15, 2024, Nigerian passport holders can now travel to the UAE,” Idris stated.  He shared that the decision follows successful negotiations between the governments of Nigeria and the UAE, resulting in mutually beneficial terms. In a statement on social media, the Minister mentioned, “An agreement has been reached, allowing the resumption of travel to the UAE for Nigerian passport holders. The new agreement includes updated controls and conditions for obtaining a UAE visa.” For additional information about the updated visa conditions, Nigerians are advised to visit documentverificationhub.ae.

UAE Has Not Lifted Visa Ban On Nigeria – Presidency

The presidency has refuted claims of the United Arab Emirates lifting the visa restriction on Nigerian travellers. The ban was imposed in October 2022 along with restrictions on citizens from about 20 African nations.  Among the affected countries are Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana, and others. Reports surfaced on Tuesday that discussions between President Bola Tinubu and his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, regarding diplomatic issues like flight allocations and travel restrictions, prompted the suspension of the ban. However, Bayo Onanuga, senior Special Adviser to President Tinubu on information, clarified that the ban remains in place, stating that the circulating document is unauthorized by both Nigerian and UAE governments. “UAE has not resumed visa issuance to Nigerians. The document in circulation is not authorized either by the Nigerian government or the UAE”, he said.