By Francis Wilfred
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening transparency, improving service delivery, and enhancing national security through ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s immigration system.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated this on Thursday while receiving the Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria (EUROCHAM), Frederik Klinke, and other members of their delegation in Abuja. Tunji-Ojo said the reforms were introduced following investigations that uncovered widespread irregularities in the administration of expatriate quotas and residence permits.
According to him, several companies had unknowingly operated with fake expatriate quotas, while unauthorized agents exploited loopholes in the system to issue fraudulent documents and charge excessive fees.To address the challenges, the Minister said the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) developed an integrated digital platform that links expatriate quota approvals directly to residence permit processing.
He explained that the platform enables real-time verification of approvals, eliminates duplication, and ensures that residence permits are issued only against valid quotas. “This integration allows us to know exactly who is residing and working in Nigeria. It improves transparency, enhances security, and removes opportunities for manipulation,” he said.
The Minister added that employers can now process applications directly online, monitor application status, receive renewal reminders, and obtain digitally verifiable permits without relying on third-party consultants.
Speaking earlier, Ambassador Mignot commended the reforms and the improvements recorded in immigration administration. He called for further measures to strengthen Nigeria’s work permit system and attract more foreign investment. Klinke also advocated sustained dialogue and collaboration between Nigeria and its European partners to promote investment, job creation, and stronger bilateral relations.
