The United Kingdom (UK) has taken steps to enhance access to visa applications for Nigerians by establishing a visa center in Enugu. This move seeks to streamline the visa application process for residents not only in Enugu State but also across the broader South-East region.
The Enugu State government expressed gratitude to the UK Government for setting up the visa center in the state. The government extended its appreciation for this development, emphasizing that it was a result of Governor Peter Mbah’s request during a visit to the Government House in Enugu by the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, in June this year.
With great delight and satisfaction, the Enugu State government views this initiative as an opportunity to not only strengthen economic partnerships but also foster cultural exchanges between Enugu State and the United Kingdom. The government eagerly anticipates building a robust, mutually beneficial relationship with the UK through this visa center.
The government also encouraged residents, particularly those in the South-East, to take full advantage of this convenient opportunity to submit their visa applications within the state. Moreover, they pledged to enhance security for both residents and business visitors in the state, emphasizing that Enugu is more open to business and investment than ever before.
This move received commendation from Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the socio-cultural umbrella of the Southeast geopolitical zone. Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, the spokesman for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, praised the British government for establishing the UK visa application submission center in Enugu.
Ogbonnia highlighted that Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu had requested the establishment of a visa office in Enugu during Montgomery’s visit on June 27. Iwuanyanwu stressed that Nigerians of Southeast extraction accounted for more than 70% of the daily travelers to the United Kingdom. He argued that subjecting this substantial number of visa applicants to travel to Lagos or Abuja for submissions was unjust.
During the visit, Iwuanyanwu also pointed out the enduring relationship between the Southeast of Nigeria and the United Kingdom, especially in the areas of religion, education, and culture. He cited the role of the Church Missionary Society, a Scottish religious organization that began evangelism in Onitsha, Anambra, in 1857. Iwuanyanwu expressed surprise at the closure of the British Council office in Enugu without adequate reason.
He assured Montgomery that a visa office in Enugu would promote bilateral collaborations, contributing significantly to the growth and sustainable development of the Southeast region’s economy. This initiative marks a significant stride in strengthening ties between Enugu and the United Kingdom while simplifying the visa application process for Southeast residents.