The Federal Government has launched a strategic partnership with ASFAAR Visa Services, Nigeria’s first indigenous visa processing agency, in a move designed to enhance the security and protection of Nigerian citizens travelling abroad.

The initiative was formally unveiled during the ASFAAR Press Launch and media tour of its world-class visa processing centre in Abuja on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, represented by his Special Assistant on Media and Strategic Communication, Alkasim Abdulkadir, said the partnership addresses long-standing concerns about the integrity of Nigerian data and travel documents.

He noted that Nigerians often face suspicion when travelling, citing a recent incident in which a Nigerian woman was wrongly accused of carrying harmful substances.

“If that person had come through ASFAAR, what it would have done is vet her identity, confirm her home address, and establish her character. This collaboration offers an additional safeguard for our citizens,” he said.

Tuggar stressed that the Ministry’s mandate is to protect Nigerian sovereignty and citizens abroad, describing ASFAAR as a gateway for stronger global credibility.

Justice Ministry Backs Initiative

A representative of the Ministry of Justice, Barrister Maculey William, also endorsed the partnership, explaining that the new system would streamline visa acquisition and improve Nigerians’ experiences abroad.

“Nigerians have had a tough time in the past, but with this initiative, we are changing that. The partnership will provide first-class service, and revenue sharing will remain under the full control of the Federal Executive Council,” he said.

ASFAAR CEO Highlights Vision

Managing Director and CEO of ASFAAR, Dr. Jamil Hausawi, explained that the idea was conceived in November 2024 following complaints from Nigerians facing visa restrictions, particularly in Saudi Arabia.

According to him, the new platform was developed as an indigenous digital ecosystem that meets international standards, with integration to Nusuk, a Saudi Arabian government platform.

“The objective is to make existing name registration the primary tool for business and travel applications, ensuring Nigerians are verified and accountable. Our aim is to simplify processes, improve transparency, and restore global confidence in Nigerian travellers,” Hausawi stated.

State-of-the-Art Facility

Journalists on the facility tour reported that the Abuja centre houses an administrative block, enrolment centre, waiting lounge, cafeteria, and other service areas—all manned by Nigerian staff.

ASFAAR’s rollout will begin with Arab and Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE—key destinations for Nigerian pilgrims and workers—before expanding to Asia, Europe, Australia, and the United States.

A Nigerian Answer to Global Scepticism

Unlike foreign-owned visa operators such as TLScontact and VFS Global, ASFAAR is wholly Nigerian-owned and operated, giving the country greater control over sensitive citizen data.

Officials say the initiative will not only ease travel bottlenecks but also restore confidence in Nigeria’s global reputation.

“It’s about ensuring Nigerians walk into airports with confidence, not suspicion,” said Nelson Obiabo, ASFAAR’s spokesperson.

The partnership, observers note, represents more than a technical upgrade in visa processing. It signals a political commitment to defend the dignity of Nigerian travelers worldwide.