The United Kingdom has inaugurated a visa centre in Enugu, Nigeria, to simplify the visa application process for residents in the state, the Southeastern region, and across the nation.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 11, in Enugu, Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), announced this development. He expressed gratitude to the UK government, citing that the visa centre was a result of Governor Peter Mbah’s earlier requests during the visit of the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, in June this year.
The statement conveyed the government’s joy and satisfaction upon learning about the visa centre, emphasising its potential to foster economic partnerships and cultural exchanges between Enugu State and the United Kingdom.
Onyia stated, “The Enugu state government eagerly anticipates a robust and mutually advantageous relationship with the UK, as the visa centre will fortify this bond.”
He urged the populace, especially those residing in the South-East, to seize the opportunity to submit their visa applications in the state. The government pledged to enhance security for both residents and business visitors in the state, affirming that Enugu was more open for business and investment than ever before.
@goldmynetv reported that in June, the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, hosted the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, at the National Secretariat of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Enugu. During this meeting, President General of Ohanaeze, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, had advocated for the establishment of a British Visa Office in the Southeast region.
Iwuanyanwu highlighted that the Southeast zone accounted for more than sixty percent of Nigerians traveling to the United Kingdom, underscoring the unfairness of requiring them to travel to Abuja and Lagos for visa procurement.