FG to Scrap Visa-on-Arrival, Launch New Landing and Exit Cards

The Nigerian government has announced plans to discontinue its Visa-on-Arrival policy, citing its ineffectiveness in regulating entry into the country. The policy, which allows certain international travelers to obtain visas upon arrival, will be replaced by a new system requiring visitors to pre-fill landing and exit cards before entering Nigeria.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed the decision during the closing ceremony of a week-long training program on Advanced Passenger Information (API), Passenger Name Record (PNR) Data, and its role in national security and law enforcement. The training, held at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) headquarters in Abuja, focused on enhancing security at the nation’s five international airports.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the Visa-on-Arrival policy has failed to effectively address security concerns, pointing out that some individuals have exploited gaps in the system by traveling to neighboring countries and crossing Nigeria’s extensive land borders to enter undetected.

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He also revealed that the ministry plans to expand the new API/PNR system beyond airports, partnering with relevant authorities to implement the technology at land borders. “Nigeria cannot be a destination for criminals,” Tunji-Ojo said, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tightening border security and ensuring that those entering the country do so through lawful means.

Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of the program, which originated from discussions at a United Nations Counter-Terrorism meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, last year. Nandap commended the NIS personnel, stating that they are well-trained and dedicated to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders.

The changes come as part of a broader effort to modernize and strengthen Nigeria’s immigration systems, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.