FG to begin implementation of e-visa May 1

The Federal Government has disclosed that arrangements have been concluded for the full implementation of its new electronic visa (e-Visa) system, effective from May 1, 2025.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced this during a joint press briefing with the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja on Wednesday. The meeting focused on the implementation and enforcement of immigration protocols.

He also revealed that the Nigerian government, with the help of the Advanced Passenger Information (API) System, has arrested foreigners on Interpol’s Red Notice list and handed them over to the organization.

The e-Visa system is expected to streamline the application process for tourists, business travelers, and other eligible visitors seeking entry into Nigeria for short stays.

The Minister said the online platform would allow applicants to complete their visa forms, upload necessary documents—such as passports, return tickets, and hotel reservations—and make secure payments.

He highlighted the importance of inter-ministerial teamwork, which made the arrests possible. “So, once again, I want to specially thank the Ministry of Aviation,” he said. “You’ve been very supportive in all our dealings, and I have to say this—we wouldn’t have been able to achieve a quarter of what we’ve achieved in terms of our border security and control without your active support.”

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Tunji-Ojo also announced the installation of E-Gates at airport terminals. “Today, all our terminals in Lagos, Calabar, and Abuja airports have our E-Gates installed and working fine, providing comfort to Nigerians and enhancing border security.

“After the API solution, we introduced the E-Gates, and we thank our landlord—the Ministry of Aviation—for their support.”

He added, “Now, after the E-Gates, the third leg is why we’re here today, which is the E-Visa and the introduction of automated landing and exit cards.

“We understand that, prior to now, we’ve always had exit and landing cards, but in a manual format—you had to fill a paper form. But we believe Nigeria, a country of 230 million brilliant people, must lead the pack when it comes to technology. In view of that, we are automating the process, and all of this takes effect from May 1, 2025.”

Festus Keyamo, on his part, reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Interior. “Today is another example of that kind of cooperation and collaboration, and this has to do with the introduction of the e-Visa,” he said.

“We have agreed with our agencies—the Immigration Service, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)—to work tirelessly and smoothly on this new initiative.”

He added that the two ministers had met several times behind the scenes to align efforts.

“We have responsibilities under our belts with this new initiative, and we have agreed to cooperate fully. We have absolutely no objection to this very laudable program, which is principally an initiative of the Minister of Interior,” Keyamo stated.