The topic of visa reciprocity between Uganda and Nigeria emerged as a key focus at the Nigeria-Uganda Trade and Business Forum held in Abuja, where stakeholders examined the various opportunities and challenges associated with business interactions between the two nations.

This forum coincided with the announcement of expanded air services to Abuja by Uganda Airlines.

At the fourth Nigeria-Uganda Trade and Business Forum, Fred Byamukama, Uganda's State Minister for Works and Transport, pointed out that the steep cost of Nigerian visas for Ugandans poses a significant obstacle to improving trade relations between the two countries.

Byamukama disclosed that Ugandans must pay $192 for a Nigerian visa, which he noted is comparable to the cost of four nights' accommodation for a Ugandan traveler, while Nigerians only pay $50 for visas to Uganda.

Adedayo Olawuyi, Chief Commercial Officer at Uganda Airlines, remarked that despite existing trade barriers, the new direct flight from Entebbe to Abuja is expected to enhance trade, streamline cargo transport, and attract more investment.

Nelson Ocheger, Uganda's High Commissioner to Nigeria, stressed that the direct flight would also play a role in reducing human and drug trafficking between the two nations, leveraging Nigeria's effective threat identification systems.

While the potential for trade between Uganda and Nigeria is significant, it is currently hindered by the varying quality standards that each country applies to similar products.

For instance, Ugandan milk that bears the UNBS quality mark may not comply with the standards established by the Nigerian Bureau of Standards.

Business leaders have expressed worries regarding the significant travel costs between Uganda and Nigeria, along with visa fees, which complicate the process of exporting to Nigeria.

While the introduction of Uganda Airlines' new flight to Abuja has led to a 75% reduction in air ticket prices, other obstacles, such as the need for import permit processing and the repatriation of trade proceeds hindered by Nigeria's foreign exchange restrictions, must be addressed for businesses to fully capitalize on this new route.

At present, Uganda Airlines accounts for approximately 23.4% of all passengers departing from Entebbe International Airport.

The launch of the Abuja route is anticipated to boost traffic at Entebbe Airport.