The Federal Government has abolished the Visa-on-Arrival policy, emphasizing that Nigeria will not become a sanctuary for criminals, and pledging a more secure and automated immigration system.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the decision, describing the policy as ineffective and prone to abuse. He noted that authorities had observed a pattern where travelers bypassed direct air entry into Nigeria, choosing instead to arrive via land borders from neighboring countries. He condemned this practice and disclosed that by March or April, the government would unveil a new comprehensive system to address loopholes in the country’s entry and exit protocols.
In place of Visa-on-Arrival, the government will implement landing and exit cards, which will be integrated into an automated travel framework for all incoming visitors.
Introduced in 2020, the Visa-on-Arrival policy permitted short-term entry at Nigerian ports; however, Tunji-Ojo argued that it fell short of global standards and best practices.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of a five-day training session on the Advanced Passenger Information-Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) system for Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) officers, the minister underscored that visas serve as critical instruments for migration control and security management.
“The current system is too subjective, which is why we are moving towards full automation,” Tunji-Ojo stated. “By March or April, our e-visa solution will go live. Travelers will apply online, and the system will be integrated with Interpol and criminal record databases to enhance security screening.”
He further stressed that Nigeria would no longer issue visas through foreign attachés and would implement tighter controls to prevent criminals from exploiting the system.
“This country cannot be a refuge for wanted criminals. Nigeria is not a safe haven for criminals—and it never will be,” he asserted.
The decision marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s immigration policy, reinforcing the government’s commitment to national security and streamlined border control.
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