Nigeria and The Bahamas Forge Visa Waiver Pact

Nigeria and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas have reached a significant agreement aimed at forging closer ties and facilitating diplomatic relations. The essence of this agreement revolves around the signing of a visa waiver pact, one that encompasses Diplomatic and Official Passport holders of both nations.

This momentous revelation comes directly from the Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Philip Davis, who shared the news during a courtesy visit by Ambassador Benaoyagha Okoyen, the High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

In a statement released by the Nigerian Embassy in Havana, it was confirmed that Ambassador Okoyen conducted this courtesy visit to Prime Minister Davis in the company of Mr. Fred Mitchel, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Bahamas. This momentous event unfolded in Nassau, further solidifying the intent of both nations to strengthen their diplomatic relationships. It is noteworthy that Ambassador Okoyen, who serves as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cuba, holds concurrent accreditation to the Bahamas, the Republic of Nicaragua, and Honduras.

The visa waiver agreement being discussed holds the promise of significant benefits for both Nigeria and the Bahamas. One of its primary objectives is to streamline the entry of citizens from both countries, particularly those who possess valid diplomatic and official passports. The ease of entry for these passport holders into each other’s respective nations will be a notable outcome of this agreement. Additionally, this bilateral arrangement aspires to safeguard the interests of both countries and further enhance their amicable relations.

The statement released by the Nigerian Embassy expressed this sentiment, saying, “The Agreement once concluded would further protect the interest of both countries and strengthen their friendly relations.” It is evident that this development is not merely administrative but a reflection of the commitment of Nigeria and the Bahamas to fostering deeper ties and promoting diplomatic collaboration.

To gain further insights into the diplomatic activities surrounding this agreement, it is important to highlight the role of Ambassador Okoyen during his visit to Nassau. As part of his diplomatic duties, he participated in the Bahamas 2023 Diplomatic Week, a significant event that marked “50 years of Foreign Relations and beyond in an independent Bahamas” from October 22 to October 27, 2023. This provided an ideal platform for diplomats to engage in constructive dialogue and exchange ideas about diplomacy and its evolving dynamics.

One noteworthy event during this Diplomatic Week was a hybrid High-Level Panel Discussion on “Diplomacy and the Next Generation.” Ambassador Okoyen represented Nigeria on this panel, which included representatives from the Bahamas, China, Indonesia, the USA, and students from various schools in the country. This discussion likely delved into the evolving landscape of diplomacy, the importance of nurturing the next generation of diplomats, and the role of diplomacy in international relations. The participation of Ambassador Okoyen exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to engaging with international partners and contributing to discussions on the future of diplomacy.

During his time in Nassau, Ambassador Okoyen also paid a visit to the Governor-General of the Bahamas, H.E. Ms. Cynthia Pratt. This visit was an opportunity for the Ambassador to bid farewell as he formally concluded his diplomatic mission in the Bahamas. Such visits are significant in diplomatic circles, symbolizing the formal end of an envoy’s term and the expression of gratitude and goodwill between nations.

In conclusion, the prospective visa waiver agreement between Nigeria and the Bahamas holds the promise of facilitating easier entry for citizens with diplomatic and official passports from both countries. This agreement is a testament to the commitment of both nations to strengthening their diplomatic ties and nurturing friendly relations. Furthermore, Ambassador Okoyen’s active participation in the Bahamas 2023 Diplomatic Week and his contributions to the High-Level Panel Discussion on diplomacy underscore Nigeria’s dedication to engaging with international partners and actively shaping the future of diplomacy. The visit to the Governor-General served as a fitting conclusion to his diplomatic mission in the Bahamas and symbolizes the continuation of goodwill between both nations.