The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to discontinue its Visa-on-Arrival policy and implement a new digital pre-entry system, including mandatory landing and exit cards for all visitors. This significant policy shift was revealed by Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo during the closing ceremony of a training program for Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel in Abuja.
The new system, set to launch between March 1 and April 1, 2025, will require prospective visitors to complete pre-arrival documentation and undergo comprehensive background checks before entering Nigeria. This marks a departure from the current Visa-on-Arrival policy, which has been in place since 2020.
“We cannot expect people to just come into our country without prior knowledge of their arrival,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained. “The visa is not just an approval of entry; it’s a migration management and security device.”
The reformed visa system will be fully automated and integrated with Interpol and criminal records systems, enabling real-time background checks. The Minister emphasized that the new approach aims to prevent Nigeria from becoming a haven for international criminals while streamlining the immigration process through technology.
Key features of the new system include:
- Digital landing and exit cards replacing manual documentation
- Integration with international security databases
- Enhanced tracking of foreign visitors
- Streamlined residency regularization process
- Real-time data sharing with relevant agencies
NIS Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap noted that over 100 officers have already received training on the new Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) system, which emerged from discussions with the UN Counter-Terrorism Organization in Bangkok.
The reform represents a significant modernization of Nigeria’s immigration system, with the Minister stating, “This is 2025, not 1825. Technology must take its place.”
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
