The Consul-General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Lagos, Mr. Daniel Krulls, has announced plans to significantly accelerate visa processing for Nigerians, with a target of completing all visa categories within three weeks.
Krulls made this known during a media briefing in Lagos, where he outlined his key priorities since assuming office. According to him, the initiative is part of a broader effort to deepen economic, cultural, and educational cooperation between Germany and Nigeria.
The Consul-General disclosed that the Lagos Consulate currently handles over 10,000 visa applications annually, but reforms are underway to boost capacity and efficiency.
“Our goal as a consulate is to be a facilitator connecting people from Germany and Nigeria,” Krulls said. “We’re expanding our office capacity, doubling visa counters, and hiring more staff so we can process applications within three weeks.”
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He revealed that the consulate would also partner with external service providers for select visa categories and roll out a new verification system for academic credentials to help fast-track student visa processing.
The verification initiative, previously piloted in New Delhi, India, proved successful in reducing processing time and is now being adapted for Nigeria.
Beyond visas, Krulls emphasized Germany’s desire to deepen collaboration in technology and the creative industries, noting that German tech firms are exploring investment opportunities in Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital economy.
He also disclosed plans for film co-productions and Nollywood partnerships, highlighting Germany’s commitment to supporting Nigerian filmmakers and ensuring creatives receive royalties from international streaming platforms such as YouTube, Google, and Netflix.
“Language barriers may have limited Germany’s visibility in Nollywood, but we’re working to change that,” Krulls added.
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On cultural exchange, the envoy mentioned ongoing people-to-people programmes, including a film workshop that brings together German film students and young Nigerian creatives from Benin City for collaborative productions.
Krulls reaffirmed Germany’s long-standing commitment to Nigeria, describing the country as “a vital partner in Africa’s social, cultural, and economic advancement.”
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
