Eric Gugua Laments Visa Hurdles, Describes Being Born in Nigeria as ‘Generational Curse’

Sola Benson Media personality expresses frustration over difficulty travelling to UK for conference. Nigerian media personality Eric Gugua has criticised the difficulties Nigerians face when seeking to travel abroad, describing the experience of being born in Nigeria as a “generational curse.” Gugua made the remark while expressing frustration over his inability to attend a blockchain conference scheduled to take place in London the following week. According to the media personality, the lengthy visa application process and extensive documentation required of Nigerian travellers make spontaneous international travel difficult. He argued that while people from some countries can make plans to travel to London at relatively short notice, Nigerians are often required to begin the process months ahead of their intended trip. Gugua said the requirements could include submitting a passport well in advance and providing several supporting documents, including a birth certificate. “If you are born in Nigeria, you are under a generational curse. There’s a blockchain conference in London next week, but I know I can’t attend. I’d need to apply for a visa months in advance and submit countless documents. Everybody in this world does not need to apply for anything to be in London the following week; I will need to submit my passport months in advance and bring every document down to my birth certificate,” he stated. His comments reflect a broader frustration among Nigerians over the challenges associated with obtaining visas to countries that require prior entry clearance. For many prospective travellers, visa applications can involve financial documentation, proof of accommodation, travel plans, evidence of ties to their home country and other supporting paperwork, depending on the destination and type of visa sought. Gugua's use of the phrase “generational curse” appeared to be a figurative expression of his frustration with the restrictions and bureaucratic hurdles he associates with travelling on a Nigerian passport. The remarks have since drawn attention to the wider conversation around international mobility, visa access and the disparity in travel freedom between passport holders from different countries.