ABUJA — Economic and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reached a significant milestone, with both nations actively expanding cooperation across banking, aviation, and trade sectors.

Financial and Aviation Growth

Recent developments underscore the strengthening partnership between the two countries:

       •  First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) in Lagos: The UAE’s largest bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), has officially established a presence in Lagos. This expansion is expected to catalyze foreign direct investment (FDI) and enhance financial connectivity between the two nations.

       •  Enhanced Connectivity: National carrier Etihad Airways is set to commence flight operations to Abuja later this year. This move is anticipated to bolster tourism, business travel, and professional exchanges.

      •  Non-Oil Trade Surge: Economic ties have proven dynamic, with non-oil trade volume growing from $4.3 billion in 2024 to $5 billion in 2025. Projections suggest this figure could climb to approximately $8 billion by 2027.

Visa Access and Bilateral Diplomacy

During a high-level meeting in Abuja, UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, met with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, to solidify these advancements.

Key diplomatic highlights include:

      •  Resolution of Visa Concerns: Ambassador Al-Shamsi reported that visa restrictions for Nigerian travelers have been significantly eased, with reports indicating that visa rejections for Nigerians are no longer being recorded. Over 15,000 Nigerians have visited the UAE in the past year alone.

      •  Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA): Both nations are prioritizing the implementation of the CEPA, which is expected to serve as a major catalyst for deeper economic cooperation, professional exchanges, and expanded investment opportunities.

      •  Commitment to Security: The UAE continues to reaffirm its support for Nigeria’s security and counter-terrorism efforts, with the Emirati government consistently condemning attacks and maintaining an active dialogue with Nigerian authorities.

Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu welcomed the progress, noting that these developments reflect the "strength" of the bilateral relationship and Nigeria's firm commitment to providing an enabling environment for investors and sovereign wealth funds from the UAE.