By Cosmas Omegoh
A travel expert, Emmanuel Praise, has expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of visa denials for Nigerians by foreign embassies. In an interview with Daily Sun, Praise highlighted systemic challenges in the visa application process, the impact of the ‘Japa’ syndrome, and the need for Nigerian applicants to build credibility to improve their chances.
Praise, a former journalist turned travel professional, noted that many foreign embassies in Nigeria, such as those of Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia, now rely on third-party processors like VFS Global and TLSCONTACT. However, he lamented that these intermediaries often treat Nigerian applicants as mere commodities, focusing on collecting fees and processing documents while embassies refuse applications with little explanation.
He pointed out that first-time applicants or those without a travel history face significant challenges, as foreign embassies tend to scrutinize their applications more critically. Unlike a decade ago, there is now a heightened emphasis on family ties and financial stability in assessing visa applications. This shift, he believes, has further complicated the process for many Nigerians.
The harsh economic climate in Nigeria has also affected the travel industry, as fewer people can afford visa applications, ticketing, and hotel reservations abroad. Praise noted that while the recession has reduced business volumes, professionals who understand the industry can still navigate its challenges, albeit on a smaller scale.
To change the narrative, Praise advised Nigerian applicants to focus on building credibility in their applications. He emphasized the importance of clearly stating their employment status, income sources, and financial capability to fund their trips. Providing proof of family ties, such as marriage certificates and children’s birth records, also strengthens an applicant’s case and reduces the likelihood of rejection.
Visa application challenges, according to Praise, have been exacerbated by the abuse of travel documents.
He explained that some Nigerians misuse visitor visas for immigration purposes, making it harder for genuine travelers to secure approvals. This trend has led embassies to impose stricter conditions and more documentation requirements.
While acknowledging recent improvements in visa processing, particularly with the U.S. Embassy’s migration to the AVITS portal and the UK’s transition back to VFS, Praise stressed the need for further reforms. He called on embassies and their third-party processors to make the application process more transparent and efficient.
He also urged the Nigerian government and aviation regulators to maximize recent improvements at the country’s airports. According to him, the reduction in touting and the introduction of modern scanning machines at the Lagos International Airport are positive steps, but more needs to be done to streamline operations across the sector.
Regarding the impact of the ‘Japa’ syndrome, Praise confirmed that embassies have become increasingly wary of Nigerian applicants. He explained that even students who pay full tuition fees may still face visa rejections if they fail to convince officials of their intent to return home after their studies. To counter this, he advised applicants to explore legitimate immigration pathways such as employment-based visas and permanent residency programs in countries like the United States, Canada, Germany, and Portugal.
Reflecting on his transition from journalism to the travel industry, Praise shared how his early passion for geography and international travel led him to a new career. Despite initial challenges, he invested time in learning the intricacies of visa processing and has since built a successful career in the field.
He credited his media background for helping him juggle multiple roles, including affiliate marketing, blogging, and content creation. The discipline and focus he developed as a journalist, he said, have been instrumental in his ability to navigate different industries effectively.
Praise encouraged Nigerians to approach visa applications with honesty and thorough research, stating that preventing visa abuse would ultimately improve the country’s credibility on the global stage.