Digital Platform To Ease Visa Applications Unveiled

Managing director of ASFAAR, Dr. Jamil Hausawi, has unveiled a new digital platform ASFAAR to simplify and safeguard visa applications for Nigerians travelling abroad.

At the launch and media tour of visa processing facilities in Abuja yesterday, Hausawi said the initiative would address difficulties Nigerians face, especially in countries where the green passport attracts suspicion.

“For decades, genuine travellers, students and professionals have been unfairly restricted due to the misconduct of a few,” he told journalists.

“ASFAAR provides a technology-driven system to verify Nigerian applicants and restore trust in our citizens abroad.”

He said the project was inspired by President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Saudi Arabia in November 2024, following repeated complaints of visa denials and travel restrictions against Nigerians.

The rollout will take place in three phases, beginning with the Middle East, then Asia and Australia, before reaching Europe and the Americas.

“By next year, officials expect ASFAAR to operate across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, making the service accessible nationwide.

“This is about restoring respect for Nigerians globally. We want to make travelling abroad simple, transparent and secure,” Hausawi said.

He added that the platform would use existing national data and name registration systems to process applications, ensuring accountability and transparency.

According to him, the project has secured backing from the Office of the Vice President, the Ministry of Justice, and Nigeria’s diplomatic missions.

Barrister Macaulay Williams of the Ministry of Justice described the scheme as “a step into tomorrow”, saying it would protect the dignity of Nigerians abroad and guarantee first-class services at global missions.

Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy to Nigeria’s foreign affairs minister, Yusuf Tuggar, said ASFAAR would provide an extra layer of protection.

“Once you hold a Nigerian passport, suspicion rises. This platform helps verify identity, curbs fake documents, and boosts the integrity of Nigerian travellers,” he said.

He added that the government’s ultimate goal is to eliminate harassment of Nigerians at foreign embassies, improve international mobility, and strengthen consular protection.