By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening transparency, security, and efficiency within Nigeria’s immigration system. He stated that ongoing reforms are designed to improve service delivery and enhance national security.
The Minister made this known on Thursday while receiving the Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, the Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, EUROCHAM, Mr. Frederik Klinke, and their delegation in his office. The press release was e-signed by Mrs. Mary Ali, Head of Press and Public Relations.
According to Dr. Tunji-Ojo, the recent reforms were introduced following the discovery of widespread irregularities within the expatriate quota and residence permit system. He said investigations revealed extensive misuse and manipulation by unauthorized agents.
Speaking during the meeting, the Minister disclosed that companies were operating with fake quotas that were never issued by the Nigerian Government. “Some agents exploited weaknesses in the old system, charging companies significant sums while processing fraudulent documents,” he said.
To address the lapses, the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, implemented an integrated digital platform. The platform links quota approvals directly with residence permit processing, thereby eliminating duplication and enabling real-time verification.
Under the new arrangement, expatriate quota approvals granted by the Ministry automatically become accessible to the NIS. This ensures that residence permits are issued only against valid and verifiable quotas, closing loopholes for fraud.
“This integration allows us to know exactly who is residing and working in Nigeria. It improves transparency, enhances security, and removes opportunities for manipulation,” the Minister added. He noted that the system provides government with accurate data for planning and security.
The Minister further highlighted that the digital platform now enables companies to manage applications directly without relying on immigration consultants or third-party agents. Employers can submit applications online, monitor status through dashboards, receive automated renewal reminders, and obtain digitally verifiable permits delivered to their email.
“The purpose of these reforms is to return control to legitimate employers, improve transparency, and eliminate unnecessary middlemen. Today, companies can process applications directly through their human resources departments without paying excessive consultancy fees,” he stated. Several multinational companies have reportedly expressed appreciation for the cost savings and increased transparency.
Earlier, Ambassador Gautier Mignot welcomed the collaboration between the European Union and Nigeria and commended the Ministry of Interior and NIS for improvements recorded in immigration administration. He called for further reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s work permit system and enhance the country’s attractiveness to foreign investors. Mr. Frederik Klinke echoed the call for deeper engagement, stressing sustained dialogue on areas of mutual interest.
FG unveils digital reforms to tackle immigration fraud, boost transparency
