The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a stern warning to international airlines, cautioning them against transporting travelers into the country without valid entry visas. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized that any airline violating Nigeria’s immigration regulations will face immediate sanctions.
Speaking during a Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Meeting on the implementation of the e-Visa system, as well as the Landing and Exit Card, held in Lagos, Tunji-Ojo made it clear that from now on, all airlines must comply strictly with immigration requirements.
He stated, “The directive regarding visas is now in effect. Passengers must have a valid visa before boarding flights to Nigeria. Any airline that allows a traveler without a visa to board is engaging in illegal activity.”
The Interior Minister criticized the act of flying individuals from Europe, Asia, or other regions into Nigeria without proper documentation. He urged airline representatives to uphold national security and sovereignty, emphasizing their duty as stakeholders in the nation’s security infrastructure.
He further explained that airlines operating in Nigeria must verify the entry visa status of each passenger before check-in. “Do not allow anyone to board a plane to Nigeria without confirming they hold a valid visa,” he warned.
New Enforcement Date: August 1
The Minister announced that enforcement of the Landing and Exit Card system will officially begin on August 1. This system is part of a broader strategy to streamline entry and exit tracking at Nigerian borders.
Rise in e-Visa Adoption
Tunji-Ojo highlighted the encouraging response to Nigeria’s new e-Visa system, noting that nearly 6,000 applications have been received since the initiative was introduced. Over 5,000 e-Visas have already been issued.
He added, “Although Nigeria is somewhat late in adopting this digital visa model, it’s better late than never. Many countries implemented e-visas years ago, and we are catching up.”
The minister emphasized that obtaining a Nigerian visa should not require knowing a top official. Instead, visa issuance must become a streamlined, transparent process.
“Visas aren’t merely tools for managing migration,” he noted. “They serve as instruments for economic empowerment and national development. Tourists and business visitors contribute to the economy by staying in hotels, shopping, using local transport, and investing in local ventures.”
Tunji-Ojo pointed to countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, and Morocco as examples of nations that have experienced economic growth through efficient migration and visa management systems.
He added that under Nigeria’s e-Visa policy, applicants from 13 eligible categories can now obtain their visas within 48 hours, significantly reducing bureaucratic delays.
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