The Federal Government has announced plans to discontinue its Visa-on-Arrival policy and implement a new system requiring visitors to complete landing and exit cards before entering Nigeria.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known in Abuja on Friday during the closing ceremony of a weeklong training program for Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel. The program focused on enhancing national security through Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems.
The Visa-on-Arrival policy, introduced in 2020, was designed to facilitate entry for high-net-worth investors and visitors from countries without Nigerian embassies. However, upon assuming office in 2023, Tunji-Ojo emphasized that such visas would be granted based on reciprocity.
He noted that the current system lacked objectivity, making migration management inefficient. To address this, the government is automating the visa application process, integrating it with Interpol and criminal records databases to enhance security.
“The visa system is not just an entry permit; it is a tool for migration management and national security. Our goal is to eliminate subjective decision-making by fully automating the process. The e-visa system is expected to go live between March 1 and April 1,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
He further explained that the automation would ensure that all visa applications undergo rigorous background checks before approval. “We cannot allow Nigeria to become a haven for criminals. From now on, all immigration decisions will require clearance from global security agencies,” he added.
Additionally, the government will introduce digital landing and exit cards, replacing the current manual process. Visitors must complete these cards before arrival, allowing real-time tracking of foreign nationals within Nigeria.
Tunji-Ojo stressed the need for comprehensive immigration reforms, stating that situations where foreign visitors remain untraceable or abuse residency policies will no longer be tolerated. “Security must be 100% foolproof. These reforms will safeguard our citizens and uphold Nigeria’s global security responsibilities,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, NIS Comptroller-General, Mrs. Kemi Nandap, highlighted that the initiative stemmed from discussions with the United Nations Organisation on Counter-Terrorism. She noted that over 100 immigration officers had undergone specialized training to ensure the project’s success.
With these changes, the Federal Government aims to strengthen border security, streamline migration management, and enhance Nigeria’s contribution to international security efforts.