By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
The Federal Government has announced plans to discontinue the visa-on-arrival policy, citing national security concerns and the need for a more data-driven visa system.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed this on Friday at the Nigeria Immigration Service headquarters in Abuja during the graduation of 100 immigration officers trained in using Advance Passenger Information (API), and Passenger Name Record (PNR), data for national security.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of thoroughly vetting all entrants before arrival, stating that the current visa-on-arrival framework poses security risks by allowing entry without prior clearance.
The government intends to roll out the new policy between March 1 and April 1, 2025.
The revamped system will require pre-arrival clearance through Interpol, criminal databases, and other background-check agencies.
The API system, currently in use at five international airports, will be expanded to land borders to monitor individuals who may attempt to re-enter the country through alternative routes.
