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.
