The Federal Government has announced that it will begin a strict enforcement campaign against irregular expatriates in Nigeria from August 1, 2025.
This new initiative comes as part of the implementation of the Expatriate Administration System, aimed at ensuring full compliance with immigration laws across the country.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a meeting with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Abuja on Tuesday., March 25
Tunji-Ojo revealed that a three-month grace period would be provided from May 1 to July 31, 2025, to allow expatriates and businesses to regularise their immigration status before enforcement begins.
As part of the government’s efforts to assist expatriates in complying with the new regulations, an immigration amnesty programme will run throughout the grace period.
This programme will enable migrants to adjust their status without facing penalties, as long as they meet the required conditions by the end of July.
“The three-month amnesty period will allow those who have overstayed their welcome or are operating outside the legal framework to regularise their status before the enforcement begins,” Tunji-Ojo explained.
Additionally, the minister warned businesses against obstructing the operations of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
He stressed that the government would not tolerate any interference in the execution of immigration duties and stated that any company found hindering the NIS would face severe penalties.
“The days when some companies irresponsibly evade immigration laws are over. The immigration service has a mandate, and they must be allowed to execute it. Any company that attempts to hinder their operations will face strict sanctions,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo also addressed the issue of immigration service fees, stating that current charges were unsustainable.
Following discussions with stakeholders, the fees for citizenship and business-related applications have been revised. The finalised fee structure will be officially released in the coming weeks and will be signed by both the Ministry of Interior and NECA.
The revised expatriate administration system, including the new fee structure, will take effect from May 1, 2025, alongside the amnesty programme.
However, the full enforcement against irregular migrants will commence on August 1, 2025.
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