Minister-Counsellor of the Kenya High Commission in Lagos, Mr Carlos Maluta, on Wednesday said 17, 556 Nigerians were issued visas to visit Kenya in 2013.
Maluta told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the number included Nigerians who visited for businesses, tourism, religious and education purposes.
He said the figure also included those transiting from Kenya to other countries.
“From available records, we are happy to announce that 17, 556 Nigerians got visas to Kenya for different purposes in 2013.
“This is an indication that many Nigerians actually visited Kenya last year, and many more are aspiring to visit, this year.
“We, therefore, strongly believe that there is a healthy relationship existing between Nigeria and Kenya,’’ Maluta said.
The envoy, however, said that about 70 per cent of the number got their visas at their points of entry into Kenya.
Maluta said that there was currently a growing level of interaction between the two countries in the areas of business, educational, religious and cultural exchanges.
The minister-counsellor said his country plans to partner the Nigerian Immigration Service to enhance movement between Nigeria and Kenya.
“The Kenya Government is exploring ways of removing obstacles to the free movement of Nigerians to Kenya.
“The government strongly believes that Kenya and Nigeria have a lot to share and exchange now and in the years ahead.
“We are, therefore, working with the Nigerian Immigration Service in facilitating both countries’ relations,’’ he said.
Maluta advised Nigerians to always take advantage of his country’s point of entry visa policy.
He assured Nigerians of speedy processing of their visas at their point of entry, if they had the necessary travel documents and return tickets.
