The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced visa waiver agreements with several Eastern Caribbean nations as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote international mobility.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this development during a bilateral meeting with representatives from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Abuja.
Under the new agreement, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will enjoy visa-free entry into Nigeria for short-term visits. The policy is reciprocal, allowing Nigerian passport holders to travel to these Caribbean nations without visa restrictions.
“This initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to fostering stronger diplomatic and economic relations with our Caribbean counterparts,” Tuggar stated. “By removing visa barriers, we aim to enhance people-to-people exchanges, boost tourism, and create business opportunities between Nigeria and the Eastern Caribbean.”
The agreement aligns with Nigeria’s broader foreign policy objectives of expanding global partnerships and improving ease of travel for its citizens. Analysts suggest the move could also encourage investment flows, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and financial services, where both regions share mutual interests.
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is expected to implement the new policy immediately, with updates to border control systems to accommodate the changes. Travelers are advised to confirm entry requirements, as the waiver applies only to short stays, while long-term visits or work permits may still require documentation.
This development follows Nigeria’s recent visa waiver agreements with other countries, including Barbados and The Bahamas, as part of the Tinubu administration’s push for improved global mobility for Nigerians. The government has also hinted at ongoing discussions with additional nations for similar arrangements.
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism and aviation sectors have welcomed the policy, anticipating increased travel and business engagements. The move is seen as a strategic step in positioning Nigeria as a key player in South-South cooperation while facilitating smoother international exchanges for its citizens.
Further details on the visa waiver conditions and duration of stay will be communicated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the NIS in the coming weeks.
