The Nigerian government has introduced a new visa policy aimed at automating entry and exit procedures while enforcing stricter penalties for overstayers.
Speaking in an interview on AriseTV, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, explained the significance of the reforms and how they will enhance Nigeria’s immigration system.
“Let me tell you this, it’s part of the new visa policy,” the minister said.
“Part of what we’re doing is to automate your landing and your exit card. We are saying no more paperwork. So we are digitalizing that and automating it. So once you come, there is less than one, two minutes for you to sort that out.”
He further explained that the new system will use QR codes and barcodes to eliminate delays and improve record-keeping.
“Once it comes, it’s scanned, bam. So there’s an activation of a counter. So by the time you want to leave, you need an embarkation card in line with the Immigration Act 2015.”
On tackling overstaying and illegal immigration, the minister stated that penalties have been introduced to enforce compliance.
“This will deal with the issue of illegal immigrants, overstayers, and of course, there are now penalties. We told them there will be three lists. There’s a white list, there’s a gray list, and a black list.”
He explained that the white list includes travelers who comply with immigration laws and enjoy seamless entry on future visits. The gray list applies to those with minor infractions, who will be subject to fines.
“Per day, there’s a penalty that we say we’re gonna put, which is gonna take effect from, I think, August 1, which is about $15 per day.”
For more serious violations, the minister warned that stricter measures would apply.
“If you overstay for more than three months, then we can ban you for five years. If you overstay for one year, you can’t tell me it’s a mistake overstaying in my country for one year. Then we will ban you for 10 years.”
While emphasizing that Nigeria remains open to business and tourism, the minister noted that respect for immigration laws is crucial.
“We are open to business… we want people to see the beauty of our country. But that is with due respect. So far, you obey the immigration laws.”
The minister also acknowledged the support of the diplomatic corps, stating that representatives from various embassies have been briefed on the new policies.
The automation of entry and exit procedures, coupled with the enforcement of penalties, is expected to strengthen national security and ensure a more structured immigration system in Nigeria.
