Nigeria Must Scrap Visa Restrictions for Africans to Drive Growth — Lumumba

Renowned Kenyan lawyer and Pan-Africanist, Prof. PLO Lumumba, has called on the Nigerian government to remove visa barriers for African citizens, arguing that greater freedom of movement is essential for the continent’s economic growth and regional integration.

According to reports by The Punch, Lumumba said Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy and one of its most influential nations, should take the lead in promoting seamless travel across the continent by easing entry requirements for fellow Africans.

Speaking on the need for stronger African unity, Lumumba argued that restrictive visa policies continue to hinder trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchange among African countries. He maintained that the implementation of visa-free travel would unlock new economic opportunities and strengthen the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

As reported by TheCable, the Pan-African advocate noted that while many African leaders speak passionately about continental integration, cumbersome visa processes remain a major obstacle to achieving meaningful collaboration among African nations.

He further urged Nigeria and other African governments to emulate countries that have already adopted more open visa policies, insisting that the continent cannot fully realise its economic potential if Africans continue to face difficulties travelling within Africa.

Meanwhile, Premium Times reports that Lumumba’s remarks have reignited conversations around the need for deeper regional integration, with policy experts stressing that easier cross-border movement could boost commerce, innovation and people-to-people connections across the continent.

His comments come amid ongoing efforts by African leaders to accelerate the implementation of AfCFTA and create a more connected and economically competitive Africa.