society
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.
society
Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos
Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos
By Ifeoma Ikem
A property dispute within the Omotayo-Ojo family has taken a dramatic turn following a controversial demolition exercise at a residential building in Ikosi-Ketu, Lagos State, which reportedly left tenants displaced and led to the detention of some police officers allegedly involved in the operation.
The property, located at 23B Loveall Street, Ikosi-Ketu, has been the subject of a prolonged ownership tussle since the death of its owner, Chief Oludola Omotayo Ojo, the Babaalaje of Imesi-Ile, Osun State, in 2019.
Residents said tension erupted when a group of individuals, accompanied by security operatives, stormed the premises and commenced demolition activities.
According to eyewitnesses, portions of the building were pulled down while tenants rushed to salvage their belongings from affected apartments.
The residents alleged that windows, doors and roofing sheets were damaged during the exercise, exposing parts of the building to the elements and causing significant losses to occupants.
At the centre of the dispute is Mrs Mojisola Omotayo Ojo Alolagbe, who claimed that the property was allocated to her by her late father during his lifetime as a source of financial support.
She alleged that some family members had persistently challenged her ownership claim despite ongoing legal proceedings relating to the administration of the deceased’s estate.
Alolagbe further claimed that the latest incident was part of a series of attempts to wrest control of the property, citing previous cases of alleged vandalism and partial demolition in November 2025, January 2026 and February 2026.
The situation escalated further when reports emerged that police officers allegedly involved in the demolition were later apprehended and conveyed in a Black Maria vehicle over questions surrounding the legality of their participation in the operation.
Sources familiar with the matter said those behind the demolition had initially claimed to be acting on approval from the Lagos State Ministry of Lands. However, the authenticity and extent of such approval could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.
The development has generated concern among residents and community members, who questioned the involvement of security personnel in what they described as a civil matter.
Some tenants, who said they had recently renewed their tenancy agreements, lamented the destruction of their property and appealed to the authorities for protection and possible compensation.
They also called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the demolition, insisting that the rights of all parties involved should be protected.
Stakeholders have urged the Lagos State Government, security agencies and the judiciary to intervene and ensure that the dispute is resolved through lawful means to prevent further escalation.
The controversy has continued to draw public attention, raising concerns over property rights, estate administration and the role of law enforcement agencies in civil disputes.
society
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.
May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.
In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.
### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.
2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.
UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.
3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.
4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.
For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.
United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.
society
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.
In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.
According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.
He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.
“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.
The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.
He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.
“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.
Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.
While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.
“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.
The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.
He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.
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