The Nigerian and Canadian governments have agreed to establish a joint technical working group to address persistent delays in the processing of Canadian visa applications submitted by Nigerians.
The decision followed a meeting in Abuja between Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, and the Chargé d’Affaires of the Canadian High Commission, David Sproule. Ajani represented the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at the meeting.
Ajani raised concerns over prolonged visa processing times, noting that the delays have affected Nigerians travelling to Canada for different purposes, particularly students.
She said some Nigerian students had been unable to travel in time to commence their academic programmes because of delays in the issuance of study permits, even after their applications had been approved.
Sproule acknowledged the concerns and said he would communicate them to the relevant Canadian immigration authorities, with a view to improving processing times and ensuring that Nigeria receives appropriate attention within the visa system.
Both sides agreed that the technical working group would maintain regular communication between relevant Nigerian and Canadian agencies and support broader discussions on migration management.
The discussions come as Nigerian applicants continue to face relatively long processing times. As of September 2, 2026, Canada’s estimated processing time for applications from Nigeria was 80 days for visitor visas, while study and work permits were each estimated at nine weeks.
The two countries also discussed opportunities under the expanding Nigeria-Canada Air Transport Agreement, which could facilitate direct air connectivity between both countries and reduce the need for travellers to connect through Europe or the United States.
In addition, Nigeria and Canada discussed developing procedures for cooperation between Nigerian authorities and the Canada Border Services Agency on the removal of persons who do not have legal status in Canada.
The latest engagement is part of efforts by both countries to strengthen bilateral cooperation on migration, travel and air transport while addressing concerns affecting Nigerians seeking to visit, study or work in Canada.
