FG appeals to Canadian Government to remove harsh visa conditions

The Federal Government (FG) has appealed to the Canadian Government to remove the stringent conditions preventing Nigerians from procuring its visa.

Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola made the appeal when the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, James Christoff paid him a courtesy visit on Wednesday in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, August 24, by the Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Mr Afonja Ajibola, the minister said easing the visa conditions would boost investment and accelerate economic growth in both countries.

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Aregbesola also urged the Canadian Government to assist the FG with new technologies to ease the monitoring of Nigerian borders, high seas, land, railways, and schools.

He said such technology would also facilitate quick response to security issues and enhance investments in Nigeria.

Earlier, Christoff said that the visit was to seek bilateral cooperation with Nigeria in the areas of the economy, security, technology, education, and training of Immigration Service personnel.

The high commissioner said that the training of immigration personnel would ensure efficient border monitoring and enhance Nigeria’s security.

Christoff said that the Canadian Government would review some of its visa conditions so that Nigerians can access Canada without difficulties.

Also, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Shuaib Belgore, said strengthening the partnership and cooperation between the FG and Canada would enhance development in both nations, including areas of security.