The federal government has announced plans to intensify its clampdown on irregular migrants in the country starting from August 1.
In preparation, the government has set a three-month grace period, from May 1 to August 1, for the implementation of the new Expatriate Administration System (EAS).
This was revealed by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a meeting with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Abuja on Tuesday.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained that the three-month period would serve as an immigration amnesty programme, allowing businesses and individuals to regularize their immigration status by following proper processes.
He further emphasised that the government will no longer tolerate instances where companies obstruct the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) from performing its duties.
The minister said, “We agreed that the era when some companies behave irresponsibly by obstructing or avoiding immigration laws will no longer be tolerated. The immigration service, by law, has the right to perform its duties, and we will be very firm with any company that attempts to prevent them from doing so.”
Additionally, the minister discussed the review of immigration fees, acknowledging that some current fees were unsustainable for certain business and citizenship activities. He stated that both parties had negotiated new fees, and further details would be shared in an official announcement.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also clarified that the new Expatriate Administration System and revised fees will take effect on May 1, 2025. During the grace period, from May to August, individuals and businesses are encouraged to regularize their immigration status to comply with established immigration protocols. After August 1, strict enforcement will be applied against irregular migrants.
He urged stakeholders to take advantage of the three-month window to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
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