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Tag: Saudi Arabia

  • Saudi Arabia open to 64-team World Cup in 2034

    Saudi Arabia open to 64-team World Cup in 2034

    Saudi Arabia would be ready and willing to host a 64-team World Cup in 2034 if FIFA accepts a controversial proposal to expand the tournament from 48, according to the kingdom’s sports minister.

    South America’s CONMEBOL has officially suggested staging the centenary 2030 World Cup in Spain, Portugal and Morocco with 64 teams but the idea has been opposed by some other continental confederations.

    Next year’s tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico will have 48 countries participating, up from 32 in 2022.

    Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal told a select group of reporters at the Saudi Arabian Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah that his country would have no objection to an increase in the numbers for 2034.

    “We’re ready, or we will be ready, inshallah (God willing). If that’s a decision that FIFA takes and thinks that that’s a good decision for everyone, then we’re more than happy to deliver on it,” he said.

    He pointed to the infrastructure already in place for Islamic pilgrims, with four million people attending Mecca for Umrah during Ramadan this year and five million expected for the Hajj.

    The global soccer governing body officially announced Saudi Arabia as hosts of the 2034 men’s World Cup in December, a bid that was uncontested but strongly criticised by rights organisations.

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    The Kingdom has invested heavily in sport over the last few years but critics accuse it of ‘sportswashing’ its human rights record. The country denies accusations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws.

    The bid book pledged 15 stadiums, new or refurbished, by 2032 and which are expected to be completed with the help of migrant labour.

    Al-Faisal said worker safety was of the highest priority and Saudi organisers were talking regularly with FIFA and 2022 hosts and neighbours Qatar, the first World Cup in the region, to learn from their experience.

    He said the death, reported last month, of a worker at the Aramco Stadium construction site in Al Khobar had come after millions of hours without issue.

    “Every incident we take seriously, we file an investigation, we look what went wrong,” said the minister. “Unfortunately, in construction, these things happen.”

    He said Saudi Arabia was part of the International Labour Organisation and a 2021 Labour Reform Act had abolished the kafala system that binds migrant workers to one employer and prevents them from leaving without the employer’s approval.

    Alcohol, prohibited for observant Muslims, is banned in Saudi Arabia and Al-Faisal confirmed the World Cup would be dry.

    “The law now here in Saudi is that there’s no alcohol. Will that change in the future? We don’t know. But I don’t see it really affecting our sporting events at all,” he said.

    “We’ve had more than 100 international events so far. We’ve had people come from all over the world to attend these sporting events. And everyone’s happy with the hospitality, the setup, the experience that they get.

    “I don’t see it as an issue, to be honest. So I hope it’s not going to be an issue”.

    Alcohol was not sold at stadiums in Qatar, where drinking in public is illegal, in 2022 but beer was available at designated fan zones and in some hotels.

  • Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign MoU to tackle drug abuse

    Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign MoU to tackle drug abuse

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, (MoU, to strengthen operational partnership and tighten the noose on drug trafficking networks operating between both countries.

    Director, Media and Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, made this known in a statement on Monday.

    The highlights of the MoU include: exchange of intelligence between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, the Saudi will avail NDLEA its training Academy for joint training, provision of operational logistics to NDLEA, conduct of joint investigations and exchange of data on convicts.

    Speaking at the signing of the partnership agreement in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Monday 7th April 2025, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) acknowledged that both countries have long been steadfast allies across various spheres, with a history of strong bilateral relations.

    He was accompanied by the Agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) Ahmed Sule Ningi.

    “However, today marks a particularly significant milestone—one that has been long overdue and holds immense importance for both our nations. Today’s event marks the culmination of the strong relationship between our two nations, particularly between our respective anti-narcotics agencies—the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”, Marwa stated.

    According to the NDLEA boss, “this partnership is not merely a matter of engagements but has extended to a deeper connection, as evidenced by the signing of the MoU today which will no doubt build on our collective expertise and establish effective strategies to address the complexities of narcotics control.”

    Explaining the significance of the agreement, Marwa said “Illicit drugs have become a global challenge that transcends geographical and ideological divides. Whether in the East or West, North or South, drug trafficking and abuse pose a shared threat to humanity. Addressing this crisis requires setting aside artificial differences and working together in unity. 

    “The instrumentality of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the frameworks of various UN conventions have established a common ground for countries to cooperate and coordinate efforts to effectively combat this mutual challenge.”

    He noted that Nigeria, through the NDLEA, has actively collaborated with international partners, such as the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA); International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau (INL) of the US; United Kingdom Border Force; National Crime Agency (NCA) of the UK, the French Police; the German Police, while the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has remained one of Nigeria’s key allies.

    “Our cooperation has been longstanding, with mutual support predating the formal signing of this Memorandum of Understanding. In fact, our working relationship extends back nearly two decades. 

    “And in the past decade, Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have maintained a strong partnership in combating drug trafficking, particularly through intelligence sharing and joint enforcement efforts.

    “As a result, in the last four years, we have made over 57,792 arrests, including 65 drug barons, leading to the seizure of more than 10million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs. We have also recorded the conviction of over 10,572 offenders while a total of 22, 047 drug users have been treated and rehabilitated across our 33 treatment centres during the same period”, Marwa stated.

    He acknowledged how past collaboration between both nations has resulted in numerous arrests and drug seizures. “Over the past 18 years, Nigerian airports have recorded multiple drug-related arrests on outbound flights to Saudi Arabia. 

    “At MAKIA, NAIA, and MMIA, a total of 44 suspects were apprehended across 35 cases involving departing flights. Between 12th November 2007 and 15th January 2025, these operations led to the seizure of 37.6kg of cocaine, along with other prohibited substances.

    “Saudi authorities have also provided intelligence leading to significant seizures, including the interception of 74.12kg of Captagon opioids at Apapa Port, Lagos, in September 2021. The shipment, originating from Syria, was under surveillance for five months before NDLEA seized it, marking the first known Captagon bust in Africa. 

    “Similarly, Saudi authorities have played a key role in joint investigations involving Nigerians apprehended for drug trafficking. In August 2023, after the arrest of Zulaihat Adam, Binta Nasidi, and Rashidat Abdullahi in Jeddah, the NDLEA swiftly traced and detained their accomplices in Nigeria, dismantling the network that facilitated the operation”, he added.

    While commending the Saudi authorities for previous support to NDLEA, Marwa highlighted other areas of need where the Agency will require the assistance of Saudi government.

    In his brief remark, Director General of Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni expressed happiness the MoU was being signed after over three years of initial discussions and preparations. He commended Marwa and his team for their resilience, sincerity and commitment to the global effort to tame the scourge of illicit drug trafficking.

    He assured of the commitment of the Saudi authorities to the letters of the MoU, while promising more support to NDLEA in the months ahead.

  • FULL LIST: Saudi Arabia temporarily suspends visa for Nigeria, Egypt, 12 other countries 

    FULL LIST: Saudi Arabia temporarily suspends visa for Nigeria, Egypt, 12 other countries 

    The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended several types of visas for citizens of Nigeria and 13 other countries, as part of measures to curb unauthorized pilgrimages ahead of the annual Hajj.

    According to Saudi authorities, the suspension aims to prevent unregistered individuals from attempting the pilgrimage without official permits, which poses safety and logistical challenges.

    While Umrah visa holders will still be allowed entry until April 13, the broader visa suspension is expected to remain in place until mid-June, when Hajj concludes.

    Under Saudi Arabia’s quota system, each country is allocated a limited number of Hajj permits, typically distributed via a lottery. 

    However, due to the high cost of official packages, many resort to unauthorized travel arrangements.

    Such unregistered pilgrims often lack access to essential amenities such as air-conditioned tents, healthcare services, and emergency medical care—making the physically demanding journey even riskier.

    The Saudi Foreign Ministry stated that the visa restrictions are intended to streamline travel procedures and enhance safety during the Hajj.

    It also warned that individuals found residing illegally in the Kingdom could face a five-year entry ban.

    During the 2024 Hajj season, at least 1,301 pilgrims died – most from heat-related causes. The majority of the deceased did not hold official Hajj permits.

    Here’s the list of the 14 countries affected by Saudi Arabia’s temporary visa suspension ahead of the 2025 Hajj:

    1. Nigeria

    2. India

    3. Pakistan

    4. Bangladesh

    5. Egypt

    6. Indonesia

    7. Iraq

    8. Jordan

    9. Algeria

    10. Sudan

    11. Ethiopia

    12. Tunisia

    13. Yemen

    14. Morocco

  • Ten countries with most difficult citizenship process

    Ten countries with most difficult citizenship process

    Getting citizenship in a foreign country can be difficult and some countries have very strict criteria. The process of becoming a citizen of another nation and settling there might be difficult and complicated for people who are unaware of the regulations.

    To help you sort out this issue a bit for you, here is a look at some of the toughest places to get citizenship

    1. Japan

    Japan’s citizenship process is rigorous, requiring at least five years of residency, a clean criminal record, and proficiency in Japanese. Applicants must submit a detailed application to the Ministry of Justice, including extensive personal information. Japan’s prohibition on dual citizenship further complicates the process, demanding that new citizens renounce their previous nationality.

    2. North Korea


    North Korea is infamous for its nearly insurmountable barriers to obtaining citizenship. The country demands renunciation of all other nationalities, strict age and education requirements, and a clean criminal record. The application process is long and includes interviews and exams, making North Korean citizenship almost unattainable for foreigners.

    3. Liechtenstein


    Liechtenstein has some of the world’s strictest citizenship requirements. Applicants must have resided in the country for a minimum of 30 years, including at least 5 years with Permanent Residency status. Exceptions include reduced residency for minors and spouses of Liechtenstein citizens, but the overall process remains highly challenging.

    4. Switzerland


    Switzerland’s naturalisation process is stringent. Applicants must have resided in the country for at least 10 years and hold a C permit. While simplified naturalisation is available for individuals married to Swiss citizens or third-generation foreigners, all candidates are required to show significant integration into Swiss culture and fulfill additional criteria set by local cantons.

    5. Qatar


    Qatar presents a formidable challenge with its stringent citizenship requirements. Foreigners must reside continuously in the country for 25 years, demonstrate proficiency in Arabic, and maintain a clean conduct record. Qatar’s laws also prohibit dual nationality, necessitating the renunciation of one’s original citizenship.

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    6. Bhutan


    In Bhutan, a secluded Himalayan kingdom, obtaining citizenship is highly restrictive. Foreigners must reside in the country for a minimum of 20 years before becoming eligible to apply. During this time, any criticism of the monarchy can result in the denial or revocation of citizenship. Bhutanese authorities maintain full discretion over the approval process, making the path to citizenship even more challenging.

    7. China


    In China, citizenship is largely reserved for those of Chinese descent, with non-nationals having limited opportunities. Applicants can sometimes obtain citizenship through marriage, but they must reside in China for at least two years. The process is complex, often requiring legal assistance and thorough documentation.

    8. Vatican City


    Vatican City, the world’s smallest country with just over 800 residents, is notoriously difficult for foreigners to gain citizenship. Citizenship here is limited to those born within its walls or appointed by the Pope. Typically, this means only those in specific roles, such as diplomats or members of the Swiss Guard, are eligible, making it nearly impossible for most people.

    9. Kuwait

    Kuwait, another oil-rich country, has one of the most exclusive citizenship policies, making it nearly impossible for foreigners to become naturalized. The requirements include:

    A minimum residency period of 20 years.

    The Kuwaiti National Law of 1959 also demands fluency in Arabic. You must be a Muslim either by birth or through conversion. Even long-term expatriates, many of whom have lived in Kuwait for generations, struggle to obtain citizenship. Kuwait does not recognize dual citizenship.

    10. Saudi Arabia

    Saudi Arabia is an oil-rich country housing Mecca and Medina, the holiest sites in Islam. Saudi Arabia has strict immigration and naturalisation policies. Foreigners looking to become Saudi citizens must:

    Reside in the country for at least 10 years.

    Be fluent in Arabic, as language proficiency is a key factor in the application process.

    Contribute to the country economically or socially, meaning professionals with valuable skills or investments stand a better chance. Despite these rules, most foreign residents in Saudi Arabia remain on temporary work visas rather than gaining citizenship, as the process remains extremely selective.

  • Russian War: U.S., Ukraine negotiators reconvene in Saudi Arabia

    Russian War: U.S., Ukraine negotiators reconvene in Saudi Arabia

    Top Ukrainian and U.S. officials are on Tuesday set to sit down in Jeddah, Saudia Arabia in an effort to get Russia’s war against Ukraine stopped.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would not be there, though he was in the Gulf state on Monday to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

    Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, Defence Minister, Rustem Umerov, Presidential Office Chief, Andrii Yermak and his deputy Pavlo Pallisa will represent Ukraine, Zelensky said.

    On the U.S. side, Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz and special envoy Steve Witkoff, who have been working on the Gaza-Israel negotiations, are expected to attend.

    The Ukrainians recently supported an initiative by French President Emmanuel Macron in favour of a partial ceasefire on airstrikes and attacks from the sea, which Russia rejected last week.

    Kiev also wanted an exchange of all prisoners with Russia as a first step.

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    Washington, on the other hand, wanted a quick and comprehensive ceasefire followed by elections in Kiev.

    Ukraine had been defending itself against a full-scale Russian invasion for more than three years with western support.

    Following a fractious meeting at the Oval Office on Feb. 28, in which U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance castigated Zelensky and called him ungrateful, Washington had paused arms deliveries to Ukraine and access to key intelligence information.

    Trump has been keen to get a minerals’ deal signed with Zelensky, but the Ukrainian president has demanded security guarantees.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • Saudi Arabia distributes 50 tonnes of dates in Kano

    Saudi Arabia distributes 50 tonnes of dates in Kano

    The Saudi Arabian authorities have distributed 50 tonnes of dates to Kano state and other northern part of the country. 

    A similar donation of 50 tones have been distributed in Abuja.

    The donation, according to a statement by the Embassy in Abuja, was part of its annual humanitarian relief programmes.                                 

    The initiative, facilitated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), aims to support vulnerable families across the country and strengthen the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.

    The Consul General of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Kano, Khalil Admawy, conveyed the Kingdom’s dedication to humanitarian causes during the official ceremony to distribute (50 tones) of dates to Kano State Government and northern Nigerian State.

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    The statement reads in part: “He expressed his profound gratitude to King Salman bin Abdelaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support in providing aid to Muslims and underserved communities worldwide.

    “He emphasized that Saudi Arabia remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering Islamic solidarity and providing relief to those in need.

    “He further explained that this year’s distribution includes 50 tones of dates for Abuja which took place last week and another 50 tones for Kano and some northern Nigerian States which arrangements are ongoing on to deliver it to them, continuing Saudi Arabia’s tradition of assisting Nigeria through humanitarian donations.

    “He noted that the initiative represents the Kingdom’s broader mission to uplift Muslim communities, alleviate suffering, and promote unity, particularly during significant by the custodian of the two Holy Mosques to King Salman bin Abdelaziz religious periods such as Ramadan indicating that the launching of IFTAAR PROGAMME which has been scheduled to take place no  dr3 Month of Ramadan in Abuja is another  humanitarian gesture by Saudi  king Salman bin Abdelaziz.

    “The Consulate, in collaboration with local authorities and humanitarian organizations, will ensure the proper distribution of the dates so that they reach the most vulnerable families in various regions of Nigeria.

    “Since the establishment of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre(KSrelief), in 2025, with the help of 175 members of the united nations, the center has completed and delivered more than 2500 projects valued at moer$7 billion, benefitting 91 countries.

    “Lastly, the consul General asked the Almighty Alah’s protection for the both countries and their rulers.”

  • Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign pact to on $7.7tr halal economy

    Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign pact to on $7.7tr halal economy

    Nigeria has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Halal Products Development Company (HPDC) to position itself as a major player in the global halal market, which is valued at $7.7 trillion.

    The agreement, signed at the Makkah Halal Forum in Saudi Arabia would promote investment, technical collaboration, and market access across key sectors such as food production, pharmaceuticals, finance, and livestock.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented at the event by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, described the deal as a transformative step for Nigeria’s economy.

    According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said “this collaboration is an important step in our ambition to not only tap into the lucrative halal market but to establish Nigeria as a leading global player.

    “We are committed to leveraging this collaboration to create jobs, attract foreign investment, and diversify our economy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    The agreement was executed with HPDC, a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund, represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Fahad Alnuhait, in the presence of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Commerce, Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi; Chairman of the Makkah Halal Forum’s Organizing Committee, His Excellency Mr. Fawaz bin Talal Al-Harbi, and Chairman of Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, His Excellency Mr. Abdullah bin Saleh Kamel.

    Also speaking, Special Assistant to the President on Export Promotion, Aliyu Bunu Sheriff, said the partnership builds on Nigeria’s growing Islamic finance sector, which has seen success through Sukuk bonds for infrastructure financing and the establishment of Islamic banks like Jaiz Bank, Taj Bank, and Lotus Bank.

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    Sheriff explained that the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) will support the initiative through capacity building, regulatory framework development, and financing opportunities.

    “This agreement aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda by creating new jobs, attracting foreign direct investment, and diversifying our economy.

    “The halal economy extends beyond Muslim consumers. Non-Muslim majority countries like Brazil, Australia, and Thailand are already leveraging the sector for substantial export growth,” he said.

    The Nigerian delegation also included the  Chairman of Dar Al Halal Group, Alhaji Muhammadu Ladan Dikko; Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bank of Industry, Dr. Mansur Muhtar; Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole who was represented by Ambassador Nura Rimi; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, represented by Ambassador Mahmoud Lele, and R’representative of the Standard Organization of Nigeria, Hajiya Amina.

    Others are the Chairman, Nigeria-Saudi Chamber of Commerce, Engr. Ibrahim Usman; Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, represented by Nur Muftau Baba Ahmed; CEO of Nigeria Export Promotion Council, Mrs. Nonye Aneyi, represented by Mustapha Aminu; Deputy President of NACCIMA, Alhaji Jani Ibrahim, and Managing Director of Bank of Industry, Mr. Olasupo Olusi, represented by Mrs. Jelilat Ismaila-Ayinde.

    VP Shettima had during the Halal Economy Stakeholders Engagement Programme held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, in September last year emphasized the economic potential of the sector, noting that “increasing Nigeria’s halal exports to OIC markets from 2% to 6% could boost the country’s GDP by $540 million, while strategic import substitution could add nearly $1 billion by 2027.

  • Saudi Arabia insists on independent Palestinian state

    Saudi Arabia insists on independent Palestinian state

    The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs has affirmed that the kingdom’s position on the establishment of a Palestinian state is firm and unwavering.

    In a statement yesterday, the ministry declared that the kingdom’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, clearly and unequivocally reiterated this stance during his speech at the opening of the first session of the ninth term of the Shura Council on September 18, 2024.

    The statement reads: “His Royal Highness emphasized that Saudi Arabia will continue its relentless efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel without that.

    “His Royal Highness also reiterated this firm position during the extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit held in Riyadh on November II,2024. He stressed the continuation of efforts to establish a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, demanding an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands.

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    “His Royal Highness also urged more peace-loving countries to recognise the State of Palestine, and emphasised the importance of mobilising the international community to support the Palestinian people’s rights, as expressed in United Nations General Assembly resolutions, recognising Palestine’s eligibility for full UN membership.”

    The statement also affirmed that the kingdom unequivocally rejected any infringement on the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, “whether through Israeli settlement policies, land annexation, or attempts to displace the Palestinian people from their land”.

    “The international community has a duty today to alleviate the severe humanitarian suffering endured by the Palestinian people, who will remain steadfast on their land and will not move from it.”

    “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emphasises that this unwavering position is non-negotiable and not subject to compromises. Achieving lasting and just peace is impossible without the Palestinian people obtaining their legitimate rights in accordance with international resolutions, as has been previously clarified to both the former and current U.S. administrations,” the statement added.

  • Saudi  to host inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2027

    Saudi  to host inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2027

    The first Olympic Esports Games will be held in two years in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the International Olympic Committee said on Tuesday, as part of a 12-year-deal with the country signed last year.

    The IOC has been looking into Esports for several years, forming a dedicated commission to find opportunities to tap into a younger generation involved with gaming.

    With its traditional audience base gradually ageing, the governing body is trying to connect with a younger generation of potential Olympics fans.

    In 2021, it developed the Olympic virtual series, a pilot venture in Esports before signing the deal with Saudi Arabia last year for hosting the Olympic Esports Games.

    “There is now a very clear roadmap to the historic first-ever Olympic Esports Games,” IOC President Thomas Bach said in a statement. “With the road to the Olympic Esports Games starting this year, the Games are becoming a reality.”

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    A six-member committee has been set up to define which games will be part of the first edition of the Esports Olympics.

    Saudi Arabia has invested billions of dollars in sports events, including soccer, Formula One, boxing and golf, with critics accusing the country of engaging in “sportswashing” over its human rights record.

    The kingdom, which will host the 2034 soccer World Cup, has denied accusations of human rightsabuses.

  • FG engages Saudi Arabia over visa restrictions

    FG engages Saudi Arabia over visa restrictions

    The Federal Government is engaging with Saudi Arabia over the recent listing of Nigeria among nations restricted from multiple entry visas.

    Saudi Arabia recently introduced new visa regulations that will impact travellers from 14 countries, restricting them to single-entry visas valid for 30 days with no option of extension.

    The changes apply to tourists, business travellers and those visiting family members, while excluding applicants for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic or residency visas.

    The new regulations target travellers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia and Yemen.

    But Nigeria expressed optimism that it is a temporary measure. 

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    According to the media aide of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Alkasim Abdulkadir, the changes may not be unconnected with the upcoming Ramadan season.

    He said: “Saudi Arabia has recently adjusted its visa policies, affecting travellers from Nigeria and 13 other countries. The issuance of visas is a sovereign right of each nation and Saudi Arabia has implemented these changes to better manage the influx of visitors, especially with the upcoming Ramadan season. 

    “Nigerian citizens are still eligible to apply for single-entry visas and thousands continue to do so daily. It’s important to note that this restriction is temporary and specifically pertains to multiple-entry visas. This policy does not prevent travellers or pilgrims from applying to visit Saudi Arabia for work or religious purposes. 

    “The Nigerian government is actively engaging through diplomatic channels to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims and travelers experience seamless journeys to Saudi Arabia.”