The Nigerian government has issued a stern warning to airlines regarding the transportation of passengers lacking valid entry visas and exit cards into the country. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, emphasized this directive during a stakeholder sensitisation programme held on Friday in Lagos, aimed at promoting the newly implemented e-Visa, landing, and exit card initiative.
Mr. Tunji-Ojo asserted that no foreign national will be permitted entry into Nigeria without a legitimate visa. He acknowledged that while the introduction of the e-Visa aims to facilitate access, it will not compromise the nation’s security.
He urged the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ensure compliance with the 2025 Nigeria Visa Policy by all airlines. The minister highlighted that the e-Visa initiative is expected to enhance border security as well as boost tourism and sustainable economic development.
“I appeal to the NCAA to enforce regulations. This meeting represents a strategic collaborative effort involving the ministry, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the NCAA,” he stated.
He further reminded the airlines of their dual responsibility to conduct business while also safeguarding national interests and security. “Before any individual enters Nigeria, please verify their visas, not merely proof of payment or tickets. This standard is upheld in the U.K., U.S., Canada, and other countries, and it will be enforced in Nigeria as well,” he added.
Mr. Tunji-Ojo also stressed the importance of simplifying the application process for e-Visas and exit cards to open Nigeria’s borders to investors. Since the launch of the e-Visa on May 1, the NIS has processed 5,814 applications, approving 5,671, rejecting 66, and querying 62 as of May 22.
The e-Visa system is designed to enhance the NIS database by gathering traveller information, with a processing time of 48 hours. The minister explained that the e-Visa, along with landing and exit cards, features a barcode containing passenger biodata and travel logs.
“It is important to note that applying for a Nigerian visa does not guarantee its issuance; applicants must meet specific criteria,” he cautioned.
Capt. Chris Najomo, the director-general of the NCAA, welcomed attendees and described the launch of the e-Visa and associated systems as a significant milestone for Nigeria. He noted that this initiative marks a step forward in improving air travel facilitation while ensuring the highest standards of aviation security and operational efficiency.
“The e-Visa exemplifies our commitment to aligning with global best practices by adhering to ICAO provisions outlined in Annex 9 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation,” he remarked. “It is fundamentally designed to enhance traveller experience while strengthening our border control systems.”
The importance of seamless collaboration among agencies was underscored as vital for the effective implementation of these systems without compromising safety, security, or service delivery.
Kemi Nandap, the controller-general of the NIS, expressed gratitude to the Ministers of Interior and Aviation and Aerospace Development, as well as the NCAA director-general, the managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and the NIS team. She called for further inter-agency collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of the e-Visa, landing, and exit cards initiative.
The event was attended by airline operators and various stakeholders.
