The launch of Uganda Airlines’ new route to Abuja has brought attention to significant visa cost disparities between Uganda and Nigeria, potentially impacting trade relations between the two nations. This issue took center stage at the fourth Nigeria-Uganda Trade and Business Forum in Abuja, coinciding with the airline’s service expansion.
Fred Byamukama, Uganda’s State Minister for Works and Transport, highlighted the stark contrast in visa fees during the forum. “Ugandans are required to pay $192 for a Nigerian visa, equivalent to four nights of hotel accommodation for a Ugandan visitor,” Byamukama stated. “In contrast, Nigerians pay only $50 for Ugandan visas.”
This disparity is seen as a significant barrier to enhanced trade between the two countries, despite the potential benefits of the new direct flight route. Adedayo Olawuyi, Chief Commercial Officer at Uganda Airlines, emphasized that the Entebbe-Abuja connection “will boost trade, facilitate cargo transportation, and increase investment,” despite existing barriers.
Uganda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Nelson Ocheger, pointed out an additional benefit of the direct flight: “It will help curb human and drug trafficking between our countries, thanks to Nigeria’s robust system of identifying potential threats.”
However, the forum also highlighted other challenges facing bilateral trade. Differing quality standards between the two nations complicate the exchange of goods. For instance, Ugandan milk products certified by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards may not meet Nigerian Bureau of Standards requirements.
Businesspeople at the forum expressed concerns about the overall cost of trade between Uganda and Nigeria. While Uganda Airlines’ new route has reduced air ticket prices by 75%, other obstacles remain. These include the processing of import permits and difficulties in repatriating trade proceeds due to foreign exchange restrictions in Nigeria.
“These issues need to be resolved before the new flight can fully benefit businesses,” said John Musoke, a Ugandan exporter attending the forum. “The reduced flight costs are welcome, but we need comprehensive solutions to truly boost trade.”
Currently, Uganda Airlines contributes about 23.4% of the total passenger traffic at Entebbe International Airport. With the addition of the Abuja route, this figure is expected to increase, potentially bringing economic benefits to both countries.
As discussions continue, both Ugandan and Nigerian officials have expressed commitment to addressing these challenges. “We recognize the need for reciprocity in our visa policies and are working towards a more balanced approach,” said a Nigerian immigration official who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations.
