The Nigeria Immigration Service has deported Zimbabwean Bishop Eben K. Nhiwatawi for violating the terms of his tourist visa by participating in a Methodist Church leadership election in Adamawa State.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the NIS Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Udo, the Service explained that Bishop Nhiwatawi’s actions breached the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024, which clearly outlines the restrictions and privileges associated with different visa categories.
The statement detailed that Bishop Nhiwatawi entered Nigeria on August 21, 2024, on a Tourist Visa (F5A), which permits entry for tourism purposes only.
However, on August 24, 2024, he was apprehended in Yola for engaging in activities related to the Methodist Church leadership election—an act deemed a violation of his visa terms.
“In light of this violation, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, with the approval of the Minister, has ordered the immediate repatriation of Mr. Eben K. Nhiwatawi,” the statement read.
The NIS emphasized that while Nigeria remains open to foreign visitors and encourages legitimate business and social activities that contribute to economic growth, it will not tolerate breaches of its immigration laws. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national security and ensuring that the activities of foreigners within the country are strictly monitored.
