Federal Government Sets August 1 Deadline For Irregular Migrants.
The Federal Government has announced plans to take strict action against irregular migrants in Nigeria, with enforcement set to begin on 1 August. A three-month grace period, running from 1 May to 1 August, has been introduced to allow affected individuals to regularise their status under the newly implemented Expatriate Administration System.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed this during a meeting with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Abuja. He explained that the government would offer an immigration amnesty programme during this period to help migrants comply with legal requirements.
“We have agreed that the days when some companies irresponsibly block or avoid immigration laws are over,” Tunji-Ojo stated. “The private sector understands that, by law, the Immigration Service has a job to do, and they must be allowed to do it. Any company that obstructs them from carrying out their duties will face strict action.”
The minister also addressed concerns over immigration service fees, acknowledging that the current charges were unsustainable. “We have reviewed the fees and recognised the need for adjustments, particularly for citizenship and business-related activities. After negotiations, we have reached a middle ground, and the final breakdown will be officially released and signed by both the ministry and NECA,” he added.
With this initiative, the government aims to enhance immigration control, ensure compliance with the law, and create a more structured system for expatriates living and working in Nigeria.
