Full Breakdown
Turkey to Establish Visa Application Centre in Kano to Enhance Bilateral Trade
4/4/2026, 12:45:23 PM
Announcement of the Visa Centre
The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, has announced plans to establish a Turkish visa application centre in Kano. This initiative aims to strengthen bilateral trade and investment between Nigeria and Turkey by improving access to visa services for businesspeople in Kano and surrounding states. Currently, many entrepreneurs must travel to Abuja for visa processing, which the new centre seeks to eliminate. Poroy described the initiative as a significant step towards enhancing business relations and facilitating smoother travel for investors seeking opportunities in both countries.
Strategic Importance of Kano
During a meeting with members of the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) and local business stakeholders, Poroy emphasized Kano's strategic importance as a commercial hub, responsible for over 30% of Nigeria’s exports. Dele Kelvin Oye, Chairman of the Nigeria-Turkey Business Council, highlighted the goal of increasing bilateral trade from $2 billion to $5 billion in the coming years, underscoring the potential for expanded contributions from Kano through increased investment and improved trade facilitation.
Economic Cooperation and Development
The discussions during the meeting were framed as part of broader initiatives to deepen economic relations and boost investor confidence between Nigeria and Turkey. Usman Darma, President of KACCIMA, noted that the engagement aligns with agreements made during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent trip to Turkey. He expressed optimism that the visa centre would significantly ease business operations for local entrepreneurs seeking partnerships with Turkish firms. Darma also mentioned ongoing talks with investors aimed at driving development projects across Kano State, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
Addressing Challenges in Trade
Concerns regarding international payment systems, particularly issues related to Letters of Credit, were raised by local businesses. Darma assured stakeholders that efforts are underway to engage financial experts and relevant institutions to resolve these challenges, facilitating smoother international transactions.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Turkish visa application centre in Kano represents a pivotal step in enhancing Nigeria-Turkey relations. This initiative is expected to unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth and strengthen economic ties between the two nations, fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We will soon open a Turkish visa application centre in Kano to enable business people obtain visas without having to travel to Abuja,” — Mehmet Poroy, Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria
- “Kano already accounts for over 30 per cent of the country’s export business. We are looking at how to increase that figure significantly,” — Dele Kelvin Oye, Chairman of the Nigeria-Turkey Business Council
- “Darma also noted that the discussions align with agreements reached during the recent presidential visit to Turkey, adding that Kano stands to benefit significantly from expanded cooperation.” — Usman Darma, President of KACCIMA
