The Traffic

No More Visa on Arrival
FG Tightens Borders with New Security Measures

By Achimi Muktar

In a sweeping move to overhaul Nigeria’s immigration system, the Federal Government has announced the end of its visa-on-arrival policy, replacing it with a stricter entry and exit tracking system. The new system will require visitors to complete landing and exit cards as part of the country’s broader migration reforms.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a weeklong training for Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel in Abuja, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo declared that the visa-on-arrival system was flawed and unfit for national security, necessitating its immediate cancellation.

Why Visa-on-Arrival is Being Scrapped

Introduced in 2020, the visa-on-arrival policy was meant to ease entry for high-net-worth investors and travelers from countries without Nigerian embassies. However, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the policy was ineffective in tracking migration and posed serious security risks.

“I don’t expect you to just come into my country without me knowing beforehand,” he stated. “The visa system is not just an entry approval tool—it’s a migration management device and a security tool.”

To replace this, the government is launching a fully automated e-visa system, which is set to go live by March or April 2025. This system will ensure that all visa applicants undergo thorough pre-arrival screening and background checks.

New Digital Entry & Exit System

One of the biggest changes will be the introduction of mandatory digital landing and exit cards, replacing the manual system. These cards will be linked to visa and passport databases and integrated with global security agencies like Interpol.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo made it clear that the government can no longer allow visitors to enter Nigeria without traceability.

“A scenario where somebody comes into Nigeria, disappears, and becomes untraceable is unacceptable,” he stated.

How the New System Works

The revamped system will incorporate Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems. These technologies allow authorities to track and profile travelers before they even board a plane to Nigeria, eliminating manual decision-making and reducing potential security loopholes.

Previously, Nigeria lacked proper traveler screening at international airports. Now, with API and PNR in place across the country’s five major international airports, the government is expanding these capabilities to all border entry points.

Stronger Borders, No Safe Haven for Criminals

As part of Nigeria’s tighter border security measures, the Minister announced that immigration decisions would now require real-time clearance from Interpol, global security databases, and criminal record systems.

“Nigeria will not be a safe haven for wanted criminals,” he affirmed. “All our systems will now be harmonized in a centralized database to ensure real-time security checks before approving entry into the country.”

With these reforms, the government aims to strengthen Nigeria’s border security, eliminate unauthorized entries, and ensure that migration policies align with international best practices.

The Bottom Line

If you’re planning a trip to Nigeria, visa-on-arrival will no longer be an option. Instead, visitors must apply for an e-visa in advance and prepare for stricter entry and exit documentation. The message is clear: Nigeria is closing loopholes and taking border security to the next level.