The Federal Government has introduced a new phase of migration reforms with the deployment of an electronic visa regime and a centralised expatriate management platform aimed at strengthening border security and improving Nigeria’s investment climate.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed the initiative in Abuja while receiving the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Mohammed Bello Shehu.
Tunji-Ojo said the reforms are designed to overhaul Nigeria’s migration system through technology-driven processes that enhance transparency, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and support economic activity without compromising national security.
At the centre of the reform is a fully digital visa system that enables end-to-end processing—from application to approval—while introducing secure QR-coded visas to strengthen verification at entry points. The system is expected to cut processing timelines, curb manual interference, and improve Nigeria’s attractiveness to investors and business travellers.
In addition, the ministry has deployed a centralised platform for managing the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) and expatriate quota approvals. The platform integrates with the Nigeria Immigration Service, allowing real-time data exchange and tighter monitoring of expatriate activities.
The minister noted that the system eliminates the role of unauthorised agents and ensures a transparent, traceable application process. He added that while Nigeria remains open to investment, citizenship matters will continue to be governed strictly by constitutional provisions.
Responding, Shehu said the reforms align with the commission’s mandate to ensure proper revenue accountability, noting that improved migration systems could enhance both national security and fiscal performance.
Industry observers say the initiative comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to balance stricter border control with the need to attract global capital and talent.
By Michael Olugbode In Abuja
