Uzbekistan has reportedly introduced temporary restrictions on visa issuance and entry into the country for Nigerian citizens, potentially affecting travellers seeking to visit the Central Asian nation for business, tourism, education and other purposes.

The development was disclosed in a notice published on the website of the Green Energy Technologies Central Asia (GETCA) exhibition, which listed Nigeria among countries whose nationals are currently subject to the restrictions.

The notice stated that the measures had been temporarily introduced for Nigerian citizens but did not provide details about the reasons behind the decision or how long the restrictions would remain in force.

However, Nigerians seeking to travel to Uzbekistan under exceptional circumstances were advised to contact the consular section of the country’s embassy for further clarification and information on possible entry arrangements.

Nigeria is not the only country affected by the reported measures, as Ghana, Kenya, Egypt, Iraq and Bangladesh were also listed on the exhibition website as countries facing similar restrictions.

As of Friday, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not issued a publicly available statement specifically explaining the restrictions affecting Nigerian nationals.

Although the ministry’s official visa information portal outlines entry requirements and visa arrangements for foreign visitors, it contains no specific explanation of the reported measures against Nigerians.

The restrictions could create uncertainty for Nigerian travellers with plans to visit Uzbekistan, particularly those travelling for commercial engagements, academic activities and other personal or professional commitments.

Prospective travellers have therefore been advised to seek clarification from the Uzbek embassy’s consular section before making travel arrangements or proceeding with applications.