The Federal Government has rolled out a new phase of migration reforms featuring an electronic visa system alongside a centralised expatriate management platform, in a move aimed at tightening border security while improving Nigeria’s investment outlook.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed the initiative in Abuja during a meeting with the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Mohammed Bello Shehu.
Tunji-Ojo explained that the reforms were designed to modernise Nigeria’s migration architecture using technology-driven processes that promote transparency, reduce bureaucratic delays, and support economic activity without weakening national security safeguards.
At the core of the new system is a fully digital visa platform that allows applicants to complete the entire process online, from submission to final approval.
The system also introduced QR-coded visas intended to strengthen identity verification at ports of entry.
The ministry said the reform is expected to shorten processing time, eliminate manual interference, and make Nigeria more attractive to investors, tourists, and business travellers.
In addition, the ministry has introduced a unified platform for managing the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) as well as expatriate quota approvals.
The platform is integrated with the Nigeria Immigration Service to enable real-time data sharing and improved monitoring of expatriate activities.
The minister further noted that the system removes the influence of unauthorised intermediaries and ensures a transparent, fully traceable application process.
He stressed that while Nigeria remains open to foreign investment, matters relating to citizenship will continue to be governed strictly by constitutional provisions.
Responding, Shehu said the reforms aligned with the commission’s mandate to strengthen revenue accountability, adding that improved migration management could enhance both national security and fiscal efficiency.
Industry analysts said the initiative comes at a crucial time, as Nigeria seeks to balance stricter border control measures with efforts to attract global investment and skilled manpower.
