Turkey has introduced a major policy change that will now allow Nigerian business travellers to obtain visas directly from its embassy in Abuja without waiting for prior authorisation from Ankara.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the decision is part of Turkey’s broader plan to deepen commercial ties with Nigeria and expand its economic footprint across West Africa.

The landmark announcement was made by Mehmet Poroy, the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, during a courtesy visit to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday.

The envoy described economic cooperation as the strongest pillar of Nigeria–Turkey relations.

He explained that despite long-standing diplomatic ties, both countries had not fully tapped into the vast economic potential available to them.

Poroy, who assumed duty in Nigeria six months ago and is preparing to formally present his letter of credence, revealed that the visa reform would remove a significant bureaucratic burden previously faced by Nigerian traders and investors.

He stated that the embassy in Abuja has now been empowered to issue visas “directly, under certain conditions,” allowing business travellers to bypass the lengthy authorisation process from Ankara.

The ambassador emphasised that the policy aims to facilitate “people-to-people and business-to-business contact,” which he described as essential for stronger commercial engagement.

In addition to the visa restructuring, the ambassador disclosed that Turkey is finalising internal approval processes to establish a Consulate-General in Lagos.

He noted that Lagos, being Nigeria’s largest commercial hub, would serve as a strategic gateway for diplomatic, investment, and trade activities.

Poroy commended the Nigerian government for its support to Turkish nationals residing in the country.

He expressed optimism that his diplomatic mission in Nigeria would be productive and mutually beneficial.

Responding to the developments, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike welcomed the ambassador and assured him of the administration’s readiness to deepen economic ties with Turkey.

Wike stressed the importance of collaborating with Istanbul, Turkey’s commercial capital, to unlock new areas of investment and development.

He described Turkey’s decision to ease visa procedures as long overdue, noting that the previous process imposed significant obstacles for Nigerian businesspeople.

Wike said that the new policy will now allow legitimate entrepreneurs to travel without the delays that once hindered trade relations.

He reiterated that the FCT Administration remains committed to providing an enabling environment for all legitimate businesses, including those owned by Turkish nationals.

The minister added that his administration would continue to support foreign investors willing to contribute to Abuja’s economic growth.

Analysts say the new visa policy signals Turkey’s attempt to secure a stronger economic presence in Africa’s largest market.

They predict that the move will likely boost bilateral trade, increase investment flows, and strengthen private-sector engagement between both nations.

In the digital age, many nations are adopting e-passports to enhance travel security and efficiency.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) notes that e-passports, also known as biometric passports, are becoming the standard for international travel across the world.

These modern passports contain embedded microchips that store unique biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.

Unlike traditional passports, e-passports are extremely difficult to forge or alter, offering stronger protection against identity theft.

Travelers benefit from faster immigration processing through automated gates and contactless verification systems.

Governments also gain the ability to authenticate identities quickly, strengthen border control, and reduce illegal entries.

The United States was among the first countries to adopt biometric passports, introducing advanced chip technology in 2006.

The move was aimed at strengthening both national security and border management.

The United Kingdom has incorporated facial recognition chips in its e-passports, allowing expedited clearance through automated e-gates at airports.

Germany’s e-passports include both fingerprint and facial biometric data, complying with strict European Union security regulations.

Japan has implemented highly encrypted biometric passports that protect citizens’ personal information while enabling smooth identity verification.

Canada’s digital passports allow travelers to navigate customs and border checks quickly and securely.

France upgraded its passport system with biometric chips to meet EU-wide security standards and improve identity authentication.

Italy’s e-passports facilitate efficient travel within the Schengen area, combining enhanced security with convenience for citizens.

Brazil adopted biometric passports to modernize immigration procedures and boost travel security.

Mexico’s passports improve processing speed at immigration points and reduce the risk of document forgery.

Australia has fully implemented biometric passports, equipping them with advanced verification systems for both nationals and international visitors.

Experts say the adoption of e-passports reflects a global recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in international travel.

Analysts note that countries embracing this technology are better positioned to secure borders and provide a seamless travel experience.

As more nations transition to biometric systems, international travel is expected to become safer, faster, and more reliable.

Officials encourage travelers to familiarize themselves with e-passport procedures to take full advantage of automated systems at airports worldwide.

With cybersecurity threats increasing globally, e-passports are increasingly regarded as the future of secure international mobility.

(DDM) – Sifnos, a small Greek island in the Cyclades with a population under 2,000, is gaining attention as a tranquil alternative to busier islands such as Corfu, Crete, and Santorini.

DDM gathered that the island’s coastline stretches approximately 70 km (43 miles), making it compact and ideal for exploration by foot, bicycle, or scooter.

Visitors can easily navigate between beaches, villages, and historical sites within a single day.

The island is renowned for its hundreds of small chapels and churches scattered across hills, valleys, and cliff edges.

Many of these chapels host vibrant religious festivals throughout the year, allowing tourists to witness and participate in local traditions.

A major annual celebration is Elias the Prophet’s Name Day in July.

Held at Sifnos’ highest peak, the festival begins with an evening mass, followed by music, traditional dances, and communal feasts, drawing both locals and curious tourists.

Despite its compact size, Sifnos offers a wide array of activities for visitors. Beach hopping is popular, with sandy and pebbly beaches offering clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Scenic coastal walks connect remote villages, ancient ruins, and secluded coves.

Sifnos also preserves its rich craft traditions, most notably pottery. The island’s pottery dates back to 3000 BC and remains an integral part of local culture.

Traditional workshops provide tourists with hands-on experiences, where they can create and paint their own ceramics, maintaining an ancient craft in a modern context.

The culinary scene on Sifnos is celebrated across Greece.

Taverns, beach bars, and restaurants serve fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and local specialties such as chickpea soup, caper salad, and moussaka.

Omega 3, a beachfront restaurant on Platis Gialos, is frequently highlighted for its innovative dishes, including sea urchin in pickled tomato water and black truffle with fig salad.

Visitors have consistently praised Sifnos for its blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and gastronomic excellence.

One TripAdvisor reviewer noted that the island is perfect for those seeking both exploration and relaxation, describing Sifnos as “a gem” for discovering deserted windmills, monasteries, and hidden beaches.

Another visitor described Sifnos as the quintessential “off-the-beaten-path” Greek island, appreciating its authentic architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and peaceful ambiance far from crowded tourist hubs.

Sifnos also boasts a mix of historical architecture, including Venetian-era fortresses, Byzantine churches, and traditional Cycladic houses painted in white with blue accents.

Its villages, such as Apollonia and Artemonas, feature quaint squares lined with cafes, boutique shops, and artisanal workshops.

For eco-tourists, Sifnos offers hiking trails through olive groves, wildflowers, and rugged cliffs, often leading to panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

The island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty ensures a sustainable and immersive experience for travelers.

With its unique combination of historical charm, traditional crafts, culinary delights, and serene beaches, Sifnos remains a hidden treasure for travelers seeking a peaceful yet culturally rich Greek island experience.