The Federal Government is set to enhance its Visa-on-Arrival policy as part of broader efforts to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and improve national security, The Nation has learned.
The upgraded policy aims to reduce human contact in visa processing, streamline the ease of doing business, and integrate advanced e-solutions for migration management. The initiative follows the inauguration of the President Bola Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) headquarters last year.
A senior NIS official revealed that the government has identified loopholes in the existing system and is deploying more secure, technology-driven infrastructure to monitor the movement of foreigners.
“We cannot operate the technology complex without addressing weaknesses in the Visa-on-Arrival policy. Our infrastructure has been upgraded to ensure a watertight security framework while enhancing convenience for legitimate travelers,” the source said.
Speaking on the reform, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a 48-hour visa processing timeline for foreign applicants.
“We want it to be easier for people to visit Nigeria for business, tourism, and short stays without compromising security,” Tunji-Ojo stated. “The goal is for e-visas to be processed and approved within 24 to 48 hours.”
The Minister made this announcement while addressing 162 NIS officers undergoing training on e-visa implementation, emphasizing their role in ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Officials within the Nigeria Immigration Service have praised the administration’s focus on passport acquisition, visa approvals, and the deployment of e-gates at airports, highlighting the strong collaboration between Minister Tunji-Ojo and Comptroller-General Kemi Nanna Nandap.
The upgraded Visa-on-Arrival system marks a significant step toward economic diversification, ensuring Nigeria remains a competitive destination for investors and tourists while maintaining a robust security framework.
