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Nigeria Scraps Visa-On-Arrival Policy Over Security Risks, Tightens Border Control

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Nigeria Scraps Visa-On-Arrival Policy Over Security Risks, Tightens Border Control

Nigeria Scraps Visa-On-Arrival Policy Over Security Risks, Tightens Border Control

In a landmark decision set to reshape Nigeria’s immigration policy, the Federal Government has announced plans to abolish the visa-on-arrival system, citing it as an “unsustainable” model and a significant security threat. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this at the graduation ceremony of 100 officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Abuja on Friday, marking a major shift towards a data-driven approach to national security.

A Radical Overhaul of Immigration Policy

Tunji-Ojo stated unequivocally that the era of spontaneous entries into Nigeria without pre-screening is over. “We believe that it is better for us to make decisions based on objectivity rather than subjectivity. Of course, that will lead to the cancellation of the visa-on-arrival process because visa-on-arrival, we understand, is not a system that works,” he declared.

Emphasizing the need for advanced vetting mechanisms, the Minister insisted that no individual should be allowed to enter Nigeria without prior clearance. “I don’t expect you to just come to my country without me knowing you’re coming in. No, it’s never done anywhere,” he said, highlighting the critical security risks posed by the existing system.

Pre-Arrival Clearance: A New Security Benchmark

To mitigate security concerns, the government is rolling out the Advance Passenger Information (API) system, initially implemented in Nigeria’s five major international airports, to the country’s porous land borders. The new regulations will mandate real-time clearance from Interpol, criminal record databases, and other background-checking agencies before any traveler is granted entry.

“What we are looking at is that for any decision that borders on immigration into Nigeria, it will be impossible for approvals to be given without the clearance of Interpol, criminal record system, and all background-checking agencies in real-time,” Tunji-Ojo affirmed.

Aiming for 100% Security Accuracy

With an unwavering commitment to national security, the Minister stressed that any lapses in border control could have dire consequences. “When it comes to security, life will never remember us for the 99 per cent we get right. History will remember us for the 1 per cent we do wrong. And security is not a sector where you can afford to be 99.9 per cent accurate. It just has to be 100 per cent.”

The new policy is set to take effect between March 1 and April 1, 2025, as part of sweeping reforms designed to tighten border controls and enhance national security measures.

From Open Doors to Fortress Nigeria?

Nigeria’s visa-on-arrival policy was initially introduced to facilitate ease of travel for eligible foreign nationals, particularly investors and tourists, aiming to simplify entry procedures and promote economic engagement. However, growing concerns over security loopholes, terrorist infiltration, and unregulated migration have prompted a reassessment of the system.

Security analysts have long warned that allowing travelers to submit documents only upon arrival makes thorough background checks virtually impossible. The lack of pre-screening has raised red flags, with intelligence reports suggesting that some individuals exploit the policy to evade security scrutiny.

A Wake-Up Call for Immigration Officers

Speaking to the newly trained NIS officers, the Minister underscored their pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s borders. “If you sleep and a person of interest enters this country, the target might be your wife, husband, children, or even you. Implement this policy with all patriotism,” he charged.

For her part, the Comptroller-General of NIS, Kemi Nandap, linked the initiative to high-level discussions with the United Nations Office for Counter-Terrorism, held during the Seventh Border Management and Identity Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, from December 11-13, 2024.

The newly trained officers, she added, are now equipped with cutting-edge border security skills to enhance surveillance, intelligence collaboration, and national security.

International Collaboration for Stronger Borders

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) representative, Paola Pace, emphasized that the five-day training should mark the beginning of sustained action in fortifying Nigeria’s immigration system.

“As you return to your respective duties, I encourage you to apply the knowledge gained to enhance Nigeria’s border management, foster intelligence collaboration, and ensure API aligns with national security priorities while supporting broader migration governance,” Pace stated.

Security experts agree that these reforms are long overdue, urging the government to fully implement the measures and ensure that Nigeria’s immigration processes meet global security standards.

As the nation braces for the official phase-out of visa-on-arrival by April 1, 2025, the stakes are high. Will these stringent measures bolster national security or deter foreign investment? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—Nigeria’s immigration landscape is about to change forever.

 

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NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE 

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NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE 

 

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,(NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter Executives has unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Chairman NAWOJ SEKINAT Salam and the Financial Secretary, Charity James, saying that, their leadership reflect the ideal and objectives of NAWOJ.

 

This was revealed in a communique issued at an Emergency meeting of the Executive held at the NUJ State Council, Iwe-Iroyin in Abeokuta.

 

The vote of confidence on the Leadership of NAWOJ was unanimously signed by all the five executive members that attended the meeting with the vice chairperson taking apology for official engagement outside the state capital.

 

According to the communique ” Consequently, NAWOJ Ogun State Chapter, reaffirms it’s unwavering support and confidence in the Chairperson and the Financial Secretary, Sekinat Salam and Charity James respectively, Urge them to continue in their commitment to purposeful leadership in the best interest of the association and the society at large”.

 

Speaking briefly with Journalists after the emergency Executive meeting, the Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Woman Journalists (NAWOJ), Com. Sekinat Salam, said the meeting was necessary as the news of her suspension was laughable and insulting because it is like a pot calling a kettle black in this case, saying that the Leadership of the State Council, Com. Wale Olanrewaju has no local standing to suspend her or any executive member, even he cannot be a judge in his own case.

 

According to her” The Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State led by Wale Olanrewaju has always been misusing power without recourse to the constitution of this noble Union, hence has no local standing to suspend me or any executive member “.

 

She said only the Central Working Committee (CWC) has the constitutional rights to sanction or suspend any members found wanting after due process has been followed.

 

While calling on members to stay calm, Com. Sekinat Salam assured members of positive representation of NAWOJ at both the State and National level, adding the success recorded under her administration cannot be overemphasized.

 

She therefore called on the National leadership of NUJ to critically look into the matter, either by setting up independent committee to investigate the issues and resolve the matter as quickly as possible.

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Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress

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Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties Limited, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, has congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State as the state marks its 50th anniversary, describing the occasion as a celebration of resilience, cultural pride, and sustained progress.

He noted that since its creation, Oyo State has remained a strong contributor to Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural development, emerging as a hub of commerce, education, and innovation.

According to him, the Golden Jubilee offers a moment for reflection and renewed commitment by government, private sector players, traditional institutions, and citizens toward building a more inclusive and prosperous state.

Aare Emmanuelking commended the state’s ongoing transformation through investments in infrastructure, economic expansion, and human capital development, adding that sustainable growth is deliberate and must remain purpose-driven.

He also praised the leadership of the current administration while acknowledging the contributions of past leaders whose efforts laid the foundation for today’s Oyo State.

Reaffirming Adron Homes’ commitment to national development, he described Oyo State as a land of opportunity. He wished the state continued peace and prosperity, expressing confidence that the next fifty years will bring even greater achievements for the Pace Setter State and its people.

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TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

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TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

 

In a profound expression of sorrow, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the entire people of Biu Emirate, Borno State, following the recent tragic attack attributed to Boko Haram. This devastating assault, which occurred at a work site in northeastern Nigeria, claimed the lives of dozens, including brave soldiers committed to protecting the nation.

In a statement released to the press and signed by the Chairman of the foundation, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the Grand Patron of the Foundation, His Excellency Amb. Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai CFR (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, described the incident as “one too many senseless, barbaric, and ruthless displays of inhumanity.” His Excellency emphasized the heartbreaking impact of such attacks on innocent, hardworking citizens striving to make a positive difference in their communities.

The Grand Patron praised the swift and decisive response of military personnel during this critical time, underscoring their brave commitment to safeguarding the nation. He called upon them to maintain this momentum, commending their courage and sacrifice in the face of adversity. “May Almighty Allah forgive their souls and grant them Aljannah Firdouse,” he remarked, encouraging the nation to honor their spirit of sacrifice as they rally together to rebuild and restore hope across the region.

In his statement, Gen. Buratai highlighted the importance of collective action in overcoming the challenges posed by insecurity, urging concerned citizens to increase their efforts in fostering a virile community that future generations can cherish. “Together, we can surmount these troubles,” he asserted, calling on all patriotic leaders and citizens to unite in the fight against violence and insecurity.

TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, unity, and prosperity. As the foundation extends its condolences to the bereaved, it also calls upon all segments of society to collaborate in creating a better and safer future. May Allah guide and protect the nation and lead it toward enduring peace. Amen.

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