By Andrew Haruna
ABUJA — The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched Asfaar, Nigeria’s first visa application centre, designed to process travel requests, enhance data integrity, and combat document fraud.
The unveiling took place in Abuja on Tuesday during a press launch and media tour of the facility. Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, represented by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, described the centre as a key step in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty in global relations.
“Before now, one of the major issues countries had with Nigeria was the sanctity and integrity of its data. With fake passports and identity misuse, confidence was low. Asfaar comes at the right time to strengthen verification processes and restore credibility,” Tuggar said.
Tackling visa hurdles for Nigerians
Currently, international agencies like French-owned TLScontact and UAE-based VFS Global handle most visa services in Nigeria. Asfaar aims to complement these services while ensuring government-backed oversight.
Chief Executive Officer Jamil Hausawi said the agency was established to ease the increasing travel restrictions Nigerians face abroad. He explained that while embassies remain responsible for visa approvals, Asfaar will act as an intermediary when applicants encounter issues.
Three-phase rollout plan
According to Hausawi, Asfaar’s launch will happen in three phases:
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Phase One – Arab and Gulf states, which receive high traffic from Nigerians, especially for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
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Phase Two – Asia and Australia.
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Phase Three – Europe and the United States, with a gradual rollout.
Next steps
Asfaar spokesperson Nelson Obiabo disclosed that the agency has started skeletal operations, with full integration expected once collaboration with embassies and consulates is finalised.
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