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ABUJA, Nigeria - The Federal Government has revealed its intention to enforce stricter measures against irregular migrants in the country starting August 1.
To facilitate compliance, a three-month grace period will be established from May 1 to August 1, during which the new Expatriate Administration System will be put into place prior to the implementation of enforcement.
During a meeting with the Nigerian Employers' Consultative Association in Abuja, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made this announcement on Tuesday.
He indicated that there would be a three-month immigration amnesty program to assist migrants in regularizing their status.
Tunji-Ojo also cautioned companies that obstruct the Nigeria Immigration Service from executing its responsibilities, emphasizing that the government will no longer tolerate such behavior.
He stated: “We agreed that the times when certain companies irresponsibly hinder or evade immigration regulations are over. The private sector recognizes that the Immigration Service has a legal mandate that must be respected.
Any company attempting to impede them from fulfilling their duties will face severe consequences. We will not accept it.”
He also spoke about the fees associated with immigration services, pointing out that current charges are not viable.
The minister noted: “We assessed the fees as we are aware they require adjustments for some citizenship and business processes. After discussions, we have reached a compromise, and the finalized fee structure will be formally disclosed and signed by both the ministry and NECA.”
