*Says Abolishment of visa requirements for Africans laudable
By; MKPUMA ENYINNA, Abakaliki
Following the courageous decision to abolish visa requirements for citizens of African countries, the President of the League of African Ambassadors, Amb. Ominyi Nwannebuike has applauded the exemplary actions taken by the Presidents and governments of Rwanda, Gambia, Seychelles, Namibia, and the Republic of Kenya in abolishing visa requirements for Africans, stating that it is a strategic step towards realizing the true essence of the AfCFTA which will boost and stabilize the economy of African countries.
Ambassador Ominyi further explained that this great feat would strengthen African unity and bring economic emancipation to the region.
According to him, It is a testament to the vision of these nations that they recognize the importance of facilitating easy movement within the continent to unlock the enormous economic potential that lies in Africa-to-Africa trade, adding that the removal of visa barriers will not only foster unity but also encourages a seamless flow of ideas, goods, and services that will increase the economic potentials of African countries.
`In alignment with the monumental strides made by the African Union Commission in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Amb. Ominyi Nwannebuike, President of the League of African Ambassadors, commends the exemplary actions taken by the Presidents and governments of Rwanda, Gambia, Seychelles, Namibia, and the Republic of Kenya. The courageous decision to abolish visa requirements for citizens of all African countries by these nations is a commendable step towards realizing the true essence of the AfCFTA.
“It is a testament to the vision of these nations that they recognize the importance of facilitating easy movement within the continent to unlock the enormous economic potential that lies in Africa-to-Africa trade.
` The removal of visa barriers will not only foster unity but also encourage a seamless flow of goods, services, and ideas, fostering economic growth and cooperation among African nations’, Ominyi said.
While applauding the actions taken by these nations, he urges the remaining African leaders and heads of African countries to follow suit.
He highlighted the untapped economic opportunities that can be harnessed through the elimination of restrictive visa requirements.
“The League of African Ambassadors, as the umbrella body of Ambassadors and High Commissioners of African countries, is poised to take a proactive role in championing this cause,” Ominyi explained.
To further bolster the realization of AfCFTA goals, Ominyi stated that the League of African Ambassadors will launch the “Free the Access to Free the Trade” Campaign in 2024.
`This strategic initiative aims to bridge the gap between rhetoric and action by advocating for the removal of visa barriers across the continent. By doing so, the campaign seeks to create an environment that truly reflects the principles of the AfCFTA and enhances the economic integration of African nations.`
He urged African leaders to consider the long-term benefits of a visa-free continent, saying that it is a call to seize the immense economic opportunities that lie within our grasp.
