The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria has confirmed that its visa application centres in Abuja and Lagos remain open to the public. This is coming after a fire outbreak that affected a section of the high commission building in Abuja on Monday.
The Communications and Public Affairs Officer for the High Commission of Canada in Abuja, Mr. Demilade Kosemani, made the clarification in a statement on Thursday.
“As we continue to mourn the passing of our dear colleague from the High Commission of Canada in Abuja, please note the following information below:
“Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC clients: processing of applications continues).
“Regardless of the suspension of operations at the High Commission of Canada in Abuja, the Visa application centres in Abuja and Lagos remain open.”
The fire incident at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja resulted in the loss of two lives, including a local employee, and left two others injured.
Global Affairs Canada, in a statement issued on Monday, pledged to collaborate with local authorities to determine the cause of the explosion.
The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria said its Abuja and Lagos visa application centres remain open for processing immigration, refugee, and citizenship applications despite suspending operations in its Abuja office following a fire incident on Monday.
In a statement posted on its X handle on Thursday, the Canadian High Commission clarified that its Abuja and Lagos visa application centres remain open and operational.
In the statement by its public affairs staff, Demilade Kosemani, the commission said, “As we continue to mourn the passing of our dear colleague from the High Commission of Canada in Abuja, please note the following information below: Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada clients: processing of applications continues. Regardless of suspending operations at the High Commission of Canada in Abuja, the Visa Application Centres in Abuja and Lagos remain open.”
Applicants can rest assured that their immigration, refugee, and citizenship applications will be processed as usual. Despite the suspension of operations at the High Commission of Canada in Abuja, the Visa Application Centres in Abuja and Lagos are fully operational, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted visa application process.
The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria acknowledges the tragic loss of their colleague during the fire incident and expresses their deepest condolences. While mourning the passing of their staff member, they remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the Nigerian public.
The Canadian government values its relationship with Nigeria and understands the importance of facilitating travel and migration between the two countries. The visa application centres play a crucial role in ensuring a streamlined and efficient process for individuals who wish to visit or settle in Canada.
Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clients can continue to submit their applications with confidence, knowing that their cases will be processed diligently. The High Commission is dedicated to maintaining its high standards of service excellence and will work diligently to minimize any potential impact caused by the temporary closure of the office in Abuja.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire incident continues, the Canadian High Commission remains in close collaboration with local authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The safety and security of its staff and applicants are of paramount importance, and necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria reiterates its commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. The visa application centres in Abuja and Lagos will continue to operate as usual, ensuring that Nigerians have access to Canadian immigration services and opportunities.
Applicants are encouraged to stay updated on any further developments regarding the reopening of the High Commission in Abuja through official channels, including the High Commission’s website and social media platforms. The Canadian government remains dedicated to providing reliable and efficient immigration services to Nigerian citizens.
Despite the challenges faced, the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria remains resolute in its commitment to serving the Nigerian public and assisting individuals in realizing their aspirations of traveling, studying, working, or settling in Canada.
