Delegates Seize Opportunity: Sneak into Tinubu’s COP 28 Delegation for Christmas in Dubai Amidst UAE Visa Ban

In the midst of the public backlash against President Bola Tinubu for his alleged misuse of federal resources on a climate discussion junket at COP 28, it has been revealed that some members of the 1,400-delegation to Dubai seized the opportunity to bypass the stringent Emirati visa process, now nearly impossible for Nigerians due to a general visa ban imposed in 2022.

Tinubu’s participation in COP 28 has drawn criticism for extravagant spending during a time of economic hardship, with over 589 federal employees under his administration present among the 1,411-strong Nigerian delegation, surpassing the numbers from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. The delegation included various individuals, not all directly related to climate policy.

Several delegates, including civil servants and a bank employee, shared with The Gazette that they exploited their association with the conference to secure visas, estimating that over 3,000 people utilized this method. Their motivations ranged from family visits to enjoying Christmas in Dubai, effectively evading the visa ban.

While the ethical implications of this visa workaround were sidestepped by the delegates, questions remain about whether the presidency was aware of the thousands securing visas without valid grounds. The UAE imposed the visa ban in October 2022, citing concerns about criminal activities involving Nigerians.

President Tinubu, who took office in May, initially gained support for removing petrol subsidies but is facing increasing scrutiny for a lack of substantial welfare policies. Despite efforts to lift the visa ban, uncertainties persist, and the presidency has not clarified its stance on the controversial visa acquisitions by the delegation.

As the controversy unfolds, concerns are rising about whether the incident could impact Nigeria’s efforts to resolve the visa ban with the UAE. Tinubu’s administration had previously attempted to end the year-long restrictions, but conflicting statements from a presidential spokesman complicated the negotiations. The situation adds another layer to the ongoing criticism of Tinubu’s presidency, raising questions about his commitment to public welfare and governance.