Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has highlighted the difficulties faced by Nigerian citizens traveling within Africa, calling for a more streamlined visa process. During an interview, Dangote shared his frustrations, noting that he had just discussed the issue with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Dangote lamented the necessity of applying for 35 different visas to travel across the continent, a requirement he finds particularly burdensome. He contrasted his experience with that of the interviewer, Patrick, who likely would not face the same visa hurdles with a non-African passport.
“Even an hour ago, I complained to President Kagame,” Dangote said. “I have to now apply for 35 different visas on my passport. I don’t have the time to go and be dropping my passports in embassies to get visas.”
He expressed frustration over the lack of uniform treatment in the visa process, stating, “The most annoying thing is that, yes, if you are treating everybody the same, then I can understand. I can assure you, Patrick doesn’t need 35 visas.”
While acknowledging existing visa-free travel zones such as the one encompassing Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya, Dangote emphasized the need for broader implementation across Africa. He urged African leaders to take decisive action to simplify intra-continental travel.
“So we Africans will have to do it. If we are waiting for foreigners to come and do it, both the development of Africa, it’s not going to happen,” Dangote asserted.
Dangote’s comments highlight the pressing issue of travel restrictions within Africa and call for a unified effort to enhance mobility for the continent’s citizens, which he views as crucial for Africa’s development.
