The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has rejected a recent report suggesting strained relations between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), describing the claims as false and misleading. In a statement released by the Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Ministry distanced itself from the article published on July 12, 2025, which alleged diplomatic sanctions by the UAE following Nigeria’s support for the Gulf nation’s UN tourism role.
According to the Ministry, the assertions in the publication titled “A Bitter Irony: UAE’s Sanctions Undermine African Trust After Africa-Backed Win for UN Tourism Role” do not represent the official stance of the Ministry, the Minister, or the Federal Government. The statement emphasized that Nigeria and the UAE continue to enjoy friendly and productive relations, particularly in tourism and cultural exchange.
The Ministry also clarified that there has been no official communication from the UAE regarding any changes to visa arrangements for Nigerian citizens. Visa processing for Nigerians, it confirmed, is proceeding smoothly without disruption.
Calling for the retraction of the misleading article, the Ministry warned against publications that could distort Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements or jeopardize international cooperation. Minister Musawa reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening tourism partnerships and promoting peaceful global collaboration grounded in mutual trust and diplomacy.
