The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to cancel its visa-on-arrival policy, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to immigration and border security. The decision, unveiled by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, comes as part of broader efforts to enhance the documentation and monitoring of individuals entering the country. The move signals a tightening of immigration controls and a renewed focus on national security in an era of increasing global mobility and security challenges.
The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of a weeklong capacity-building training program for personnel of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). The training initiative is one of several measures being implemented by the NIS to improve the documentation and tracking of visitors to Nigeria. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of adopting advanced systems and integrated solutions to ensure that immigration decisions are based on comprehensive data and real-time background checks.
Introduced in 2020 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the visa-on-arrival policy was designed to facilitate short-stay visas for eligible travelers at the point of entry. The policy aimed to boost tourism, attract foreign investment, and streamline the visa application process for business travelers and other short-term visitors. However, concerns over security loopholes and the need for stricter immigration controls have prompted the current administration to reconsider the policy.
In its place, the Federal Government plans to introduce landing and exit cards, which prospective visitors will be required to pre-fill before entering the country. These cards are expected to provide detailed information about travelers, enabling authorities to conduct thorough background checks and risk assessments prior to their arrival. Tunji-Ojo stressed that the new system would ensure that no individual enters Nigeria without proper vetting, thereby enhancing national security.
“Security is not a sector where you can afford to be 99.9 percent correct. You just have to be 100 percent,” the minister stated. “We believe that it is better for us to take decisions based on objectivity rather than subjectivity. And of course, that will lead to the cancellation of the visa-on-arrival process because the visa-on-arrival we understand is not a system that works. I don’t expect you to just come into my country without me knowing that you are coming into my country.”
The proposed changes are part of a broader effort to harmonize Nigeria’s immigration data systems and integrate solutions for managing migration into the country. Tunji-Ojo highlighted the need for real-time collaboration between the NIS, Interpol, criminal records systems, and other background-checking agencies. Such integration, he argued, would make it impossible for approvals to be granted without proper clearance from relevant security agencies.
The decision to scrap the visa-on-arrival policy reflects growing concerns over the potential risks associated with lax immigration controls. In recent years, countries around the world have faced increasing challenges related to illegal immigration, human trafficking, and transnational crime. By tightening its visa policies, Nigeria aims to address these issues while also safeguarding its borders against potential security threats.
The move has sparked mixed reactions from stakeholders. Proponents argue that the new system will enhance national security and improve the efficiency of immigration processes. They point to the importance of pre-arrival vetting in preventing the entry of individuals with criminal backgrounds or malicious intent. Critics, however, worry that the cancellation of the visa-on-arrival policy could deter tourists and business travelers, potentially impacting the country’s economy.
The visa-on-arrival policy was initially introduced as part of efforts to position Nigeria as a business-friendly destination and boost its tourism industry. By allowing eligible travelers to obtain visas upon arrival, the policy sought to eliminate the bureaucratic hurdles associated with traditional visa applications. While the policy achieved some success in attracting visitors, concerns over its security implications have ultimately led to its reconsideration.
The Federal Government’s decision underscores the delicate balance between facilitating international travel and ensuring national security. As global travel patterns continue to evolve, countries are increasingly adopting measures to strengthen their border controls while maintaining openness to legitimate travelers. Nigeria’s move to scrap the visa-on-arrival policy aligns with this trend, reflecting a growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making and integrated security systems.
The capacity-building training program for NIS personnel is a key component of the government’s strategy to modernize its immigration processes. By equipping immigration officers with the skills and tools needed to manage complex migration challenges, the program aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of the NIS. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of continuous training and capacity development in ensuring that Nigeria’s immigration system remains robust and responsive to emerging threats.
As the Federal Government moves forward with its plans to cancel the visa-on-arrival policy, attention will turn to the implementation of the new landing and exit card system. The success of the initiative will depend on the ability of the NIS to seamlessly integrate the new processes and ensure that travelers are adequately informed about the changes. Effective communication and collaboration with international partners will also be critical in minimizing disruptions to travel and trade.
The decision to scrap the visa-on-arrival policy marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its immigration system and enhance national security. While the move may present challenges, it also offers an opportunity to build a more secure and efficient framework for managing migration into the country. As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of global mobility, the focus on data-driven solutions and integrated security systems will be key to achieving its objectives.
In a world where security threats are increasingly transnational, the importance of robust immigration controls cannot be overstated. By prioritizing security and adopting innovative solutions, Nigeria is taking a proactive step toward safeguarding its borders and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The cancellation of the visa-on-arrival policy is not just a policy shift; it is a statement of intent—a commitment to building a safer, more secure future for the nation.
