Federal Government to Scrap Visa-on-Arrival

Nigeria’s Visa-on-Arrival policy will soon be a thing of the past, as the Federal Government moves to introduce automated landing and exit cards for visitors.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced this on Friday in Abuja at the closing ceremony of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) training for Immigration officers.

The minister explained that the Visa-on-Arrival system is no longer effective, as it allows visitors to enter Nigeria without prior screening. Instead, the government is automating the visa process to ensure security checks are done in real time before entry.

The new system, expected to launch between March 1 and April 1, will be linked to Interpol databases and criminal record systems, making it impossible for visas to be issued without proper background checks.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated: “Nigeria will not be a safe haven for criminals. Visitors must fill digital landing cards before arriving, and the process will be fully integrated with immigration and security systems worldwide.”

Meanwhile, NIS Comptroller-General, Mrs. Kemi Nandap, emphasized the importance of capacity building to maximize this new security initiative, confirming that over 100 immigration officers have been trained in preparation for the transition.

Writing by Julian Osamoto