The Nigerian government has recognized the importance of boosting tourism following the remarkable influx of visitors during the last Detty December.

According to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the festive season highlighted the potential of Nigeria as a prime tourist destination, reinforcing the need to ease entry into the country.

Tourism Boom During Detty December

Detty December, the end-of-year festive period spanning from mid-December to the New Year, witnessed a significant rise in foreign visitors. This surge not only enhanced cultural exchanges but also had a positive impact on the economy. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the Federal Government is committed to making Nigeria more accessible to foreign investors and tourists alike.

“We must make it easy for legitimate people to come in and explore the beauty of our land. We must open Nigeria up for business, and that is what Mr President is doing: working so hard every day to make sure he increases foreign direct investment, to make sure that people come to Nigeria, and we are seeing the results,” he stated.

Easing Entry Through E-Visa

One of the government’s key initiatives to facilitate tourism is the introduction of the e-visa system. Tunji-Ojo clarified that the e-visa is not a replacement for the visa-on-arrival but rather an improvement aimed at eliminating bureaucratic hurdles.

“Visa-on-arrival as it is today is a form of e-visa. The only difference is that when you apply online, it goes to the CG’s office; it is only the CG’s office that approves visa-on-arrival,” he explained.

He further described the current process, highlighting the cumbersome steps travelers undergo upon arrival.

“Once it is approved, they send you a notice that it is approved, you take that notice and when you get to Nigeria, you go through the pain of going to what we call visa-on-arrival counter where they will now take vignette and stick it to your passport,” he said.

To streamline this process, the optimized e-visa system will eliminate unnecessary steps.

“We are saying there is no need for that. So, the visa-on-arrival process has only been optimised in such a way that you apply online. Once you apply online, you get your decision to come, you don’t need a vignette, you get approval with a QR code.”

Aligning with Global Best Practices

Tunji-Ojo noted that this approach aligns with the visa systems of advanced nations such as the UAE, Australia, and Qatar. By modernizing Nigeria’s entry procedures, the government aims to enhance the travel experience, ultimately positioning the country as a more attractive destination for business and leisure.

As Nigeria seeks to capitalize on the momentum from Detty December, these reforms are expected to foster economic growth, boost tourism, and further integrate the nation into the global travel landscape.