The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to international airlines operating in Nigeria, stating that any carrier found transporting passengers into the country without a valid visa, as well as properly completed landing and exit cards, will face strict sanctions.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this declaration on Friday during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement in Lagos focused on the implementation of Nigeria’s E-Visa, Landing, and Exit Cards systems.
“No foreigner will be allowed to enter this country without a visa. Nigeria is not a dumping ground,” the minister said, stressing the Federal Government’s resolve to balance ease of travel with national security.
While acknowledging the strides made through the introduction of the E-Visa system designed to streamline entry for investors and tourists Tunji-Ojo emphasized that convenience will not come at the expense of sovereignty or safety.
“Before anyone boards a plane to Nigeria, their visa must be verified. A payment receipt or flight ticket does not grant entry,” he stated firmly. “That may work elsewhere, but it will not be accepted here not anymore.”
He urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ramp up awareness and ensure airlines strictly comply with the updated 2025 Nigeria Visa Policy, which requires all inbound passengers to possess valid travel documentation before departure.
The minister highlighted the E-Visa’s potential to boost border control, enhance tourism, and attract foreign direct investment, positioning it as a tool of national interest.
“I appeal to the NCAA to fully embrace its regulatory responsibility. This gathering today bringing together the Ministry, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the NCAA shows what meaningful collaboration looks like,” Tunji-Ojo said.
Providing updates on the system’s performance since its May 1 launch, the minister revealed that the NIS has received 5,814 applications, of which 5,671 were approved, 66 rejected, and 62 queried a figure that demonstrates the system’s efficiency and selectivity.
He also explained that the digital visa platform includes secure features such as barcoded landing and exit cards that will enrich the NIS database with vital travel data.
“Applying for a Nigerian visa doesn’t guarantee one. Applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria before issuance,” Tunji-Ojo warned.
In his remarks, NCAA Director-General Chris Najomo described the launch of the e-Visa and its accompanying digital documentation as a significant step forward in aligning with international best practices.
“This system reflects Nigeria’s commitment to ICAO standards, particularly Annex 9 on air travel facilitation,” Najomo said. “It enhances operational efficiency, strengthens border security, and simplifies the travel experience for legitimate visitors.”
Najomo noted that applicants can now complete visa processes entirely online, with an average turnaround time of under 48 hours. He added that the reform is expected to improve Nigeria’s image as a business- and tourist-friendly destination, thereby driving economic growth.
Also speaking at the event, NIS Comptroller General Kemi Nandap commended the Ministry of Aviation, NCAA, and the Federal Airports Authority for their support. She called for deeper inter-agency cooperation to ensure the long-term success of the E-Visa initiative.
“Effective collaboration is the key to ensuring this digital transformation succeeds without compromising service delivery, security, or traveler experience,” Nandap concluded.
