A UAE delegation has arrived in Nigeria for talks on diplomatic relations and the resumption of flights

A delegation of five members from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) arrived in Abuja on a recent Sunday, with the primary aim of engaging in discussions with the Nigerian government regarding the reestablishment of diplomatic ties and the resumption of flight operations between the two nations.

The delegation, led by a mid-level official, is scheduled to hold meetings with Nigerian officials over the next few days. Their discussions will encompass the issues that caused the deterioration of relations between the two nations in the previous year.

This visit follows a notable stopover by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abu Dhabi while returning from the G20 Summit held in India last month.

Back in September, the Nigerian government issued an official statement, indicating that they had reached an agreement with the UAE to promptly recommence flights operated by Emirates and Etihad Airlines. However, the UAE countered this statement, asserting that the agreement had not been finalized.

Diplomatic sources have conveyed that the UAE is eager to enhance bilateral relations with Nigeria. Nonetheless, they appear to be inclined to proceed cautiously until they can ascertain the mutual benefits of such cooperation.

Sources reveal that a significant concern for the UAE is the issue of approximately $85 million in ticket revenues that are currently held at Nigeria’s Central Bank. Additionally, visa restrictions imposed on certain Nigerian citizens have garnered attention from the UAE.

The Nigerian government has reported that they are still in the process of finalizing the details of the flight resumption agreement.