The colours of the Nigerian flag were displayed on the Burj Khalifa in Dubai in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.
Recall that a few weeks ago, the UAE suspended granting visas to Nigerians (aftermath of the Hushppupi scandal and others) during the lockdown.
After lockdowns ended and flight resumed, the UAE reopened its borders to other countries but maintained the visa ban on Nigerians and said nothing about the maltreatment of Nigerians in the UAE during the covid lockdown period.
The Nigerian government then swung into action and issued an immediate ban on all Emirates flights from Nigeria (which happens to be the 3rd biggest revenue stream for Emirates airlines).
From the 23rd of September, the Nigerian government refused to allow any Emirates plane touch Nigerian soil and banned flights from many other country’s airlines who do not regard Nigerians with the same courtesy that it gives them.
Seven days later, the UAE reversed the visa ban and announced that they will allow Nigerians visa access to UAE in the hopes that Nigeria restores Emirates flights.
Political and diplomatic analysts say that he lighting of Burj Khlaifa was a symbol of goodwill to appease Nigeria.
