Foreign Ministry denounces requests for visas

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that it would no longer entertain requests, which do not fall strictly within the ambit of official government administration, by officials and individuals, for assistance in the acquisition of visas and other facilities from foreign Embassies, High Commissions and institutions.

Mr. James Victor Gbeho, the sector Minister, said the Ministry had received letters from unauthorized persons seeking assistance in the acquisition of visas not only for official travels but also for travels that are not for official purposes. It recalled that in April 1996, the Ministry sought the co-operation of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to curb the increasing number of requests asking for assistance in the acquisition of visas for purported official travels.

Mr. Gbeho also stated that it has being decided that all such requests were to be signed by Ministers, Deputy Ministers or Chief Directors. It said while some MDAs have complied with this requirement, the majority has ignored it.

In the process of genuinely trying to help, the Ministry has had its credibility and reputation soiled. "The underlying reason for the requests is the wrong perception that such applications stand a better chance of succeeding when backed by introductory letters issued by the Ministry". In reality however, the statement added, applications stand a better chance of favourable consideration when presented on their own because some questions raised by the Missions are best answered by the applicants themselves.

The Ministry called for the understanding and co-operation of MDAs to strengthen the regime for the acquisition of visas for official travels, to help curb the embarrassing practice.