The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Visa

  • How I was lured to Akure for Australia visa, by Ghanian victim

    How I was lured to Akure for Australia visa, by Ghanian victim

    A Ghanian, Jeremiah Amoah, has narrated how he was lured to Akure, the Ondo State capital, to obtain his Australia visa but was later defrauded.

    Amoah was among 70 victims who were rescued by operatives of the Ondo Amotekun Corps from the den of a kidnap syndicate at Oda area of Akure.

    Many of the victims were lured from Ghana as they were told they could easily obtain visa in Nigeria to travel to their choice countries.

    Amoah said the syndicate collectsd $2000 from him immediately he arrived Akure.

    He said he realised he was duped when he was instructed to invite another person from Ghana, to be swapped with him before he could be released from the camp.

    He said, “A friend called me from Ghana and told me to come to Nigeria for my travel processing to Australia. When I arrived in Lagos, he told me to take a cab to Akure.

    “After arriving at Cathedral Junction, I was told to wait for an agent to pick me up. When the agent arrived, he took me to a hotel, and later, he took my money, which was about $2,000.

    Read Also: How to check your application status as US releases H-1B visa lottery results

    “After collecting my money, they took me to another location and instructed me to lure another person to Nigeria before I would be released.

    “I was able to escape at midnight when everyone was asleep. I jumped over the wall. Amotekun really helped us; they ensured that all those involved were arrested and that over 70 victims were freed.”

    Ondo Amotekun Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, said, “It’s a 28-man syndicate that specializes in kidnapping, human trafficking, and rustling. They invited unsuspecting members of the public that they wanted to help them procure US and Australian Visas. We have 28 Ghanaians that were invited to Akure, and once they come in, they collect money from them, some of them $2,000, some of them $1,500, and kidnap them and house them in Oda, and the only condition under which they leave the place is to bring another set to be kidnapped.

    “The eagle eye of the Intelligence Section of Amotekun Corps was able to pick them and right here today, we have 28 of them. We equally have those of them that were rescued by the Corps and their families.”

  • Top five countries offering best salaries, visa pathways for STEM professionals in 2025

    Top five countries offering best salaries, visa pathways for STEM professionals in 2025

    STEM professionals (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) continue to be in high demand worldwide for years.

    Many leading nations have created specialized visa programs to attract these experts, recognizing their importance in driving innovation and economic growth.

    With demand at an all-time high, STEM careers offer not only lucrative salaries but also promising opportunities for career advancement.

    In 2025, several countries stand out as top destinations, offering both competitive pay and streamlined immigration processes to welcome skilled professionals.

    Here are the five Countries with the best salaries for STEM professionals, along with their skill-shortage visa programs:

    1. Switzerland

    Switzerland leads in innovation and technology, reflected in its high salaries for STEM professionals. In 2025, average salaries range from 120,000to120,000 to 120,000to160,000, depending on expertise and industry. The Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences recently launched initiatives to promote STEM fields from 2025 to 2028, responding to local market demands.

    Key Industries in Switzerland

    Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology

    Artificial Intelligence & Data Science

    Software Development

    Engineering & Robotics

    Visa Programs for STEM Professionals

    Switzerland Work Visa for Skilled Workers: Employers sponsor experts in science, technology, and engineering.

    Shortage Occupation List Visa: This streamlined process targets sectors facing talent shortages.

    2. United States

    The U.S. remains a global powerhouse for technology and engineering. In 2025, average salaries for STEM professionals range from 100,000to100,000 to 100,000to180,000. Silicon Valley, Boston, and Seattle lead the job market for tech-driven roles.

    Key Sectors in the U.S.

    Cybersecurity & Data Science

    Software Development & AI

    Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering

    Biotech & Pharmaceutical Research

    Visa Programs for STEM Workers

    H-1B Visa: A non-immigrant visa for highly skilled professionals in STEM fields.

    O-1 Visa: For individuals with exceptional abilities in science, technology, and engineering.

    STEM OPT Extension: Allows international students in STEM to work in the U.S. after graduation.

    Read Also: LASAMBUS returns to stationed points after The Nation report

    3. Germany

    Germany, known as Europe’s engineering and manufacturing hub, attracts top STEM talent. In 2025, salaries range from €70,000 to €130,000 (75,000to75,000 to 75,000to140,000). The country’s robust research and development sector makes it ideal for STEM professionals.

    Key Industries in Germany

    Automotive Engineering & AI-driven Manufacturing

    Information Technology & Cybersecurity

    Renewable Energy & Environmental Engineering

    Chemical & Biotech Research

    Visa Programs for STEM Workers

    Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card): A points-based system to attract skilled professionals.

    EU Blue Card: A work and residency permit for highly skilled non-EU professionals.

    German Skilled Immigration Visa: Allows foreign STEM professionals to work in high-demand sectors.

    4. Australia

    Australia is a prime destination for STEM professionals due to its growing demand in various fields. In 2025, salaries for STEM roles range from AUD 90,000 to AUD 160,000 (60,000to60,000 to 60,000to110,000).

    Key Sectors in Australia

    Renewable Energy & Environmental Science

    IT & Cybersecurity

    Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Research

    Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Software)

    Visa Programs for STEM Workers

    Global Talent Independent (GTI) Visa: Targets high-caliber professionals in STEM and tech fields.

    Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491 & 190): For professionals willing to work in regional areas.

    Employer-Sponsored Visas (TSS 482 & ENS 186): Allow companies to hire skilled foreign STEM professionals.

    5. Canada

    Canada is a hotspot for STEM professionals, thanks to its tech-driven economy and favorable immigration policies. In 2025, salaries for STEM roles are expected to range from CAD 90,000 to CAD 150,000 (70,000 to 115,000).

    Key Industries in Canada

    Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

    Software Development & IT Security

    Aerospace & Robotics Engineering

    Green Energy & Environmental Science

    Visa Programs for STEM Workers

    Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): A streamlined path for high-demand STEM professionals.

    Global Talent Stream (GTS) Visa: Provides expedited work permits for foreign tech professionals.

    Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Various provinces nominate skilled STEM workers for immigration.

  • Five countries with easy visa policies for Nigerians

    Five countries with easy visa policies for Nigerians

    For many Nigerians, getting a visa can be difficult and time-consuming. Popular destinations like the UK, US and Schengen countries often have strict requirements. 

    However, some lesser-known countries offer easier visa options. These places allow Nigerians to travel visa-free, get a visa on arrival, or apply online with a simple process.

    Here are five countries that many Nigerians don’t often consider but have friendly visa policies:

    1. Bolivia

    Bolivia is a great choice for Nigerians looking for a unique travel destination. While a visa is required, the application process is straightforward. Unlike many Western countries, Bolivia does not require an extensive travel history, making it ideal for first-time travelers.

    The visa offers multiple entry options and is valid for up to a year. The fees are also affordable compared to other destinations. Though prior approval from Bolivia’s National Migration Service is needed, this step is simple with proper preparation.

    With stunning landscapes and a rich cultural experience, Bolivia is an exciting option for Nigerian travelers.

    2. Paraguay

    Nigerians who want to visit Paraguay must get a visa before traveling. However, the process is quick and simple. Applicants need to submit their documents to the Paraguayan embassy or consulate.

    Travellers need a valid passport, visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and evidence of financial support. Once submitted, the visa is processed without long delays.

    Paraguay offers Nigerians an opportunity to explore South America’s culture, business environment, and scenic views.

    3. Armenia

    Armenia is another country with a hassle-free visa process for Nigerians. The application can be done online through the Armenian e-Visa system.

    To apply, travelers need a valid passport, a recent photo, proof of accommodation, and a travel itinerary. The visa fees are affordable, and approval usually takes just a few days.

    Armenia’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming visa policy make it an excellent destination for Nigerians seeking new experiences.

    4. Georgia

    Nigerians planning to visit Georgia must obtain a visa before traveling. Unlike some countries that offer e-Visas or visas on arrival, Nigerians must apply for a sticker visa through the Georgian embassy or consulate.

    Read Also: Nigeria, UAE set to discuss visa issues, says minister

    The process is simple and requires submitting a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, a travel itinerary, and financial proof. The application is processed within a reasonable time.

    Georgia offers Nigerian travelers a chance to explore its rich culture, business opportunities, and beautiful landscapes.

    5. Serbia

    Serbia is another destination with a straightforward visa process for Nigerians. Applicants need to submit their documents to the Serbian embassy or consulate.

    Travellers must provide a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and financial proof. Processing is fast, allowing visitors to plan their trips without long waits.

    With a growing economy, rich history, and beautiful scenery, Serbia is a great choice for Nigerians looking to explore Europe.

    These lesser-known countries provide Nigerian travelers with easier visa processes and exciting opportunities to experience new cultures, business ventures, and scenic destinations

  • FULL LIST: 12 countries with higher visa approval rates for Nigerians

    FULL LIST: 12 countries with higher visa approval rates for Nigerians

    Navigating visa applications can be challenging for Nigerian travelers due to varying approval rates across countries. While some nations have higher rejection rates, others offer more favorable prospects.

    Applicants need to provide accurate and complete documentation to improve their chances of visa approval.

    Consulting official embassy guidelines and seeking professional advice can further enhance the likelihood of a successful application.

    Here are twelve countries known for higher visa approval rates for Nigerian applicants:

    1. Portugal: Renowned for its warm hospitality, Portugal maintains an efficient visa application process with a high approval rate.

    2. Iceland: Known for its efficient and transparent visa procedures, Iceland offers approval rates for Nigerian travelers.

    3. Finland: With streamlined application processes, Finland is among the Schengen countries with higher visa approval rates.

    4. Estonia: Estonia’s simplified visa procedures contribute to its higher approval rates for Nigerian applicants.

    5. Lithuania: Offering a straightforward visa application process, Lithuania has a reputation for higher approval rates.

    Read Also: Nigeria, UAE set to discuss visa issues, says minister

    6. Slovakia: Known for its accommodating visa policies, Slovakia provides approval rates for Nigerian travelers.

    7. Latvia: With efficient visa procedures, Latvia is among the countries with higher approval rates for Nigerian applicants.

    8. Slovenia: Slovenia’s streamlined visa process contributes to its higher approval rates for Nigerian travelers.

    9. Greece: Greece offers a high approval rate for Nigerian applicants, making it a favorable destination.

    10. Poland: Poland has a reputation for being one of the easier Schengen countries for Nigerian applicants, with higher approval rates.

    11. Italy – Italy has relatively lenient visa policies compared to other Schengen countries.

    12. Spain – Spain is a popular travel destination with a high visa approval rate.

  • FG begins training of 162 Immigration officers for visa application, approval 

    FG begins training of 162 Immigration officers for visa application, approval 

    The federal government has begun training 162 officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to handle visa applications, procedures, and approvals.

    The officers will undergo intensive training on electronic visa applications to streamline the process for foreigners visiting Nigeria.

    The training is part of a broader effort to ensure that visa applications are processed within 24 to 48 hours.

    Speaking at the NIS headquarters in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized that the Tinubu administration is committed to building a more efficient and responsive immigration system.

    Tunji-Ojo said Nigerian borders should be opened to good people for business, for tourism and other legitimate enterprises.

    The Minister said:” The whole idea for me is when people are able to apply and get their visas electronically. I think approval should be gotten within 24 hours or a maximum of 48 hours.

    ” Nigeria is a serious country led by a serious President in the person of President Tinubu, he is here to disrupt the normal or to create what we call unusual. And an efficient and vibrant NIS is possible. I know the time for the actualization is now. It is either we get it now or we forget about it.”

    Read Also: Why proof of funds for UK, US visa applications in Nigeria is important, by expert

    While charging the selected officers to be dedicated, honest and represent the country well, in the course of their duties, the Minister insisted that the best is expected from them. 

    “For the e-visa, I want you to do a good job because honestly speaking a population of 230 million people, the biggest economy in Africa. The frustration people go through to get visa into Nigeria is unacceptable. Let us calll a spade a spade. It is unacceptable.  

    “To come to Nigeria should not be difficult. Once you meet the conditions, we are a very hospitable people. We want to see people come to Nigeria. Let them come. Let us build an economy that will encourage people to come.

    “The immigration has a key role to play on the Ease of Doing Business. Key role to play in terms of tourism and in terms of investment opportunities and a lot.. The situation is beyond boarder security. Don’t not forget you are the gate. You are the gateway to the nation. The impression you give about Nigeria is one that will always last forever,” Tunji-Ojo said. 

    Dr. Tunji-Ojo further warned the officers not to compromise the nation’s national security and not approve terrorists and other criminals into Nigeria.

    Speaking earlier, the Comptroller General of the NIS, Mrs Kemi Nana-Nandap, described the training as a significant one, adding that the selected officers have been thoroughly vetted before the start of the intensive training.

    She said the system is a departure from what the agency had initially, saying ” not only are we doing thorough veting but we going to ensure that we have the documentation being warehoused with the NIS.”

  • Nigeria/Canada visa row

    Nigeria/Canada visa row

    • By Mike Kebonkwu

    If a relatively little known country in the Horns of Africa, or any of our neighbouring west African countries were to have denied a Nigerian citizen or national of entry permit or treats him with indignity, nobody would have heard about it. That is the usual experience and lot of Nigerians everywhere they go; even on transit.  No thanks to the poor image we cut for ourselves with poor political leadership.  Whatever your standing in life, a Nigerian is painted with  the same uniform brush of corruption and criminality; that is the usual stereotype.  

    We must therefore not lose our minds because Canada denied the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and some military personnel visa to attend the Invictus games for injured soldiers and veterans in Vancouver Canada.  For those concerned about the numbers, it was a military game and there was nothing that says that the CDS could not have been at the head of delegation if he attaches such importance to it.

    What was the method of application for the visa; did it meet the standard practice?  Being a military game or event, the Defence Section of the Canadian embassy or the defence attaché had an important role to play to facilitate the visa application; were they aware and what did they do? 

    Reactions had been mixed though; but overall the denial reflects adequately the views and ratings of our country by the Canadian government and its embassy staff as well as European countries generally.   Many of us would not want anything untoward to happen in diplomatic relations with Canada because that is where a host of our children and citizens are taking refuge as economic migrants to escape the poor educational environment and poverty in Nigeria to earn decent living because of their seemingly liberal visa regime.  As my people would say, “what affects the eyes affects the nose”.

    Christopher Musa is a four-star General and belongs to the crème la crème of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, the Queens of battle.  He is battle tested, with shinning armour and highly decorated.  He is the Chief of Defence Staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces; the number one soldier and one of our finest.  General Musa does not appear to understand or care a hoot about politics of self preservation but rather chooses to speak like a soldier that he is, baring his mind on any issue even if it hurts the political establishment or international agencies or foreign governments. He is simply vocal with little reservation.  He has attained the highest rank in the armed forces of Nigeria, short of a field marshal, which is an uncommon award hardly attained  except for the maverick Field Marshal Idi Amin Dada of Uganda.  He qualifies as a ranking member on protocol list, domestic or international as number one soldier of the Nigerian Military on active service. 

    It was a surprise to hear that he was denied visa by the Canadian embassy in Nigeria for an official visit to Canada.  Again, Christopher Musa does not belong to the class of people that would lament the refusal of visa to any country in the world for that matter.  He can get his pleasure anywhere in Nigeria with all the insecurity, and he would still catch his fun; so what is the big fuss after all about Canadian visa!  Let them go with their visa but they may not need to go to hell.  It would appear to me that the denial of visa is not so much of an error of omission but racial arrogance and prejudice. 

    Read Also: N30trn Ways and Means: Senate panel accuses CBN of frustrating probe

    Whatever the visit was meant to achieve, we should look beyond the usual animus we have for privileged Nigerians and beef with soldiers and first, examine the disrespect to our country which such denial represents in international diplomacy.  I am aware that Canada is one of the Western countries that feel strongly about the allegations of human rights abuses levelled against the Nigerian military establishment in the fight against insurgency without substantiation.  I am also aware that they even deny visas to some family members of military officers where they are known to have served in places with reported incidents of alleged rights abuses in the fight against insurgency, banditry and insecurity in Nigeria.  The war against insecurity is our own war; the western countries and Europe cannot fight it for us.  They want to impose their model and value system on us and would not want the security forces to use lethal force against criminals and insurgents levying war against the state; something they do not tolerate or harbour in their own countries. 

    Some European countries and America have denied Nigeria equipment and armament and are reluctant to share security intelligence at their disposal.  This is why the mounting allegations of sponsorship of the insurgency against some Western countries through numerous NGOs and aid regimes is plausible and believable.  They are able to enlist and pay civil society organizations and right groups in Nigeria to carry out their campaign without understanding the destabilizing effect of such campaign to the country. 

    Nigeria does not deserve to be treated in condescension and patronage but for poor political leadership that seek approval from foreign countries and agencies.  While Nigeria should avoid diplomatic rows with Canada or any other foreign country for that matter, there should be reciprocal treatment in equal measures to what we get from any other sovereign country.  We should not forget, and we should not forgive! We should also consider reviewing military cooperations with such country but not necessarily through declaration of conflict.  If we have managed our affairs properly as a nation, Canada should be the least of countries to haul diplomatic insult on Nigeria in trading with visa to our citizens and nationals.  This is about Nigeria; an injustice done to one should be seen as injustice done to all! 

    We should not turn the other cheek.  It is time for us to retool our educational institutions for modern scholarship and learning.  We should build and develop our economy and infrastructure. Our healthcare delivery system should be cutting edged to stop medical tourism.  We should prioritize security, and trust me, we can do it.   We should not tolerate racism of any kind; White, Asian or Arab, with condescending patronage and tolerance. 

    Whatever the reason for the denial which is still shady and cloudy, the message is very clear that we do not count in the estimation of the West who see us through the prisms of generalization as criminals and corrupt people.   For every act or omission, we invite America and Europe for endorsement. We invite the  International Criminal Court (ICC) and other international organizations to arrest and prosecute our leaders for wrongs done on our soil.  Don’t we have our own institutions and laws?  We steal the wealth of our countries and take it to Europe to hide where they use it to develop their economies.  We run to the European and Western countries for holidays and medical tourism.  We want to advertise our presence in European capitals riding in their railways, tubes and night clubs as mark of recognition and importance. 

    We continue to make our country to look big for nothing before foreigners and so they take liberty to treat us like morons and mendicants. 

    We accept every prescription and recommendation from the west and their organizations in disregard of our culture and morality.  They want us to accept gay, lesbianism, and homosexuals as fundamental rights and our NGOs and CSOs are given grants to carry out the campaigns; and we are happy with the handout from them.  We should not get migraine because of Canadian visa; let them go with their visa.  Canada does not compare to Nigeria in natural endowment.  Ordinarily they should be the ones looking for visa to come to Nigeria and enjoy the beauty and generosity of nature and friendly and hospitable people.  It is time to reposition our country and earn our respect and dignity amongst comity of nations.  The denial of visa to General Christopher Musa and his team is a good lesson for us!  They should deny more privileged and prominent Nigerians visa; period!

    •Kebonkwu Esq writes via mikekebonkwu@yahoo.com

  • Why FG discarded Visa-on-Arrival policy, by Minister

    Why FG discarded Visa-on-Arrival policy, by Minister

    The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo on Tuesday explained why the administration of President Bola Tinubu discarded the Visa-on-Arrival policy. 

    According to the Minister, the Visa-on-Arrival policy was not only ineffective but also capable of compromising the security of the country. 

    Tunji-Ojo, who presided over a meeting on the New Visa Policy (NVP) with the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS) Mrs Kemi Nanna Nandap, further said the new policy would be far reaching and all encompassing with technological innovations as its backbone. 

    Tunji-Ojo said: “Today, I presided over a meeting on Nigeria’s new visa policy. The Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 (NVP 2025), alongside the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap. 

    “The proposed visa policy aims to enhance the ease of doing business, boost tourism, and strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations with other countries.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: UK, Nigeria missing as US releases eligible countries for visa waiver programme

    “In the proposed policy, we introduce a more streamlined and efficient visa approval process, including the electronic visa (e-Visa) as a separate channel for processing and obtaining Nigerian visas. 

    “As a Ministry guided by the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), this innovation complements our existing Visa structure while enhancing all Visa-related services from end-to-end.

    “As a government, we firmly believe in striking a balance between promoting economic growth, tourism, and national security.”

  • Germany launches visa application portal for Nigerians, others

    Germany launches visa application portal for Nigerians, others

    Germany has launched a new online platform to simplify the visa application process for Nigerians seeking to work, study or join family members in the country.

    Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described the online visa application portal as a positive development that will help the country meet its demand for skilled workers.  

    “Every year, Germany is short of at least 400,000 skilled workers. 400,000 clever minds and even more agile hands to keep our country running – in the skilled crafts sector, in the care sector, in tech companies. Our national economy is also in a global competition to attract trainees, apprentices, and students.  

    “At times like these, we cannot afford to downright put the best off coming here to roll up their sleeves because of long paper application forms and even longer waiting periods. 

    “At times like these, as one of the biggest economies and as a modern country of immigration, we need a national visa process that is state-of-the-art – modern, digital and secure,” Ms Baerbock said.

    Read Also: Orban in Germany for Hoffenheim deal

    Accessible globally, the portal allows applicants to select from 28 categories of national visas and is available to all 167 German visa offices worldwide.

    The initiative is part of a broader effort to modernise the immigration process and address Germany’s pressing shortage of skilled workers.

    By simplifying visa access, Germany hopes to attract skilled workers and ensure a more inclusive and responsive immigration system in line with modern demands.

  • US embassy releases new visa directive for Nigerian applicants

    US embassy releases new visa directive for Nigerian applicants

    The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced a revision to its immigrant visa process, set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

    As part of the updated procedures, applicants scheduled for interviews must visit the Consulate General in Lagos twice during the visa process.

    The embassy shared this directive on its official X page on Tuesday.

    “For applicants with interviews scheduled after January 1, 2025, you are required to visit the Consulate General in Lagos at least twice during the immigrant visa process,” the announcement stated. “This new process is designed to help you prepare for your visa interview and to prevent significant delays in processing your immigrant visa.”

    Details on the embassy’s website clarify that the first visit involves an in-person Document Review with consular staff. This step ensures that applicants are adequately prepared for their visa interviews.

    Read Also: Two US Embassy officials in Anambra attack found alive

     According to the embassy, “The review allows applicants to retrieve any missing documents ahead of their visa interviews, helping to avoid delays in application processing.”

    However, the second visit will be a formal interview with a consular Officer, scheduled by the National Visa Center (NVC).

    The embassy further noted, “If you do not complete the In-Person Document Review before your visa interview, you will be required to reschedule your appointment.”

  • Visa hosts 23 innovators at Africa fintech accelerator

    Visa hosts 23 innovators at Africa fintech accelerator

    Digital payments company, Visa, said it has hosted 23 innovative fintech startups that presented their groundbreaking solutions to an audience of venture capitalists, angel investors, ecosystem enablers, and business partners.

    The fintech startups participated at the Demo Day for the second cohort of the Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator program which took place on in Cape Town, South Africa.

    Senior Vice President and Head of Visa Sub-Saharan Africa at Visa, Aida Diara, said: “I am incredibly impressed by the innovative solutions presented by the startups. Their creative approaches to solving financial challenges are truly inspiring.

    We are immensely proud to support these fintech pioneers, who are driving digital transformation and showcasing remarkable potential for growth and scalability. At Visa, we are committed to providing these visionary entrepreneurs with the platform and resources they need to succeed and make a significant impact.”

    The second cohort’s Demo Day was a culmination of a 12-week intensive program that included training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The highlight of the event included startup pitches from three batches representing different regions of Africa—West Africa, North Africa, and East & South Africa.

    The Demo Day serves as a pivotal moment for the participants of the Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator program, offering unparalleled visibility and opportunities for growth and investment. By showcasing their innovative solutions to a curated audience of key ecosystem players and potential funding partners, the startups gain valuable exposure and the chance to form strategic collaborations that can propel their businesses forward.

    Read Also: VFS Global launches new visa application centres in Nigeria

    The Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator program is a three-month intensive initiative designed to support Seed to Series A startups by offering one-on-one mentorship, training, and exclusive opportunities for funding and partnership. Launched in 2023, the program aligns with Visa’s commitment to invest $1 billion in Africa by 2027, aiming to uplift and bolster the continent’s digital transformation.

    To date, the program has accelerated 45 startups across Africa, providing them with the tools and resources needed to scale their innovations and drive financial inclusion.

    The third cohort of the program commenced on November 5  in Abidjan, welcoming 19 next-gen digital pan-African enablers. These startups operate across 21 African countries with 85per cent of them featuring female leadership, rising from 43per cent in the inaugural edition and 65per cent in the second edition, a trend that Visa is committed to accelerating.