The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, says Ankara has authorised its embassy in Abuja to issue visas directly to Nigerian business travellers without seeking clearance from Turkey, describing the step as a major boost for economic cooperation between both countries.

Poroy disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in Abuja on Monday, with both sides committing to smoother travel channels and stronger commercial ties.

The envoy, who arrived in Nigeria about six months ago and is yet to formally present his letter of credence, said improving economic collaboration was central to Turkey’s engagement with Nigeria.

“As you rightly mentioned, economic aspects of our relations are maybe the most important part,” he said, adding that the two countries were still “behind the potential” available to them.

He explained that under the new arrangement, the embassy could now issue visas to business travellers directly.

“At the embassy, we can give directly, under certain conditions, their visa,” he said. “This is an important first step to facilitate people-to-people [and] businessman-to-businessman contact between the two countries.”

Poroy also revealed that Turkey was concluding internal procedures to open a Consulate-General in Lagos, a move he described as another practical step toward deeper diplomatic and commercial engagement.

The ambassador thanked the minister for what he described as the services and support enjoyed by Turkish nationals living in Abuja, expressing optimism that his posting would be “very nice and fruitful.”

Responding, Wike welcomed the envoy to the FCT and reaffirmed the administration’s willingness to expand economic ties with Turkey and its major commercial centres, including Istanbul.

“And we would like to, particularly in Istanbul, to see how we can partner with them to improve economic relations,” he said.

Wike said Abuja remained committed to providing a conducive environment for legitimate businesses, including those run by Turkish nationals.

“It is our intention to provide a free environment where citizens, without molestation, can carry out their businesses,” he stated.

The minister also praised Turkey for simplifying its visa process for Nigerians, noting that obtaining travel documents had long been a source of frustration for residents and business travellers.

“Now that you have taken steps, we commend that, so businessmen who want to go to Turkey will not find it difficult,” he said.

He assured Poroy that the FCT Administration would remain available to support initiatives that could strengthen cooperation between both sides.

Poroy was accompanied by Hakan Tok, Secretary at the Turkish Embassy. (The PUNCH)