The Saudi Arabian government has canceled the visas of all 264 passengers airlifted by Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, upon arrival in the country from Kano.

The passengers were informed that their visas were canceled upon landing in Jeddah. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is investigating the matter to determine if any consular or aviation rules were violated.

Stakeholders in the aviation sector suggest that the development is a form of aeropolitics and diplomacy, emphasizing the need for the Nigerian government to stand firmly with designated national carriers.

Air Peace has been operating flights to Saudi Arabia at relatively lower fares, attracting high patronage and conserving foreign exchange for Nigeria.