Petitions: Tunji-Ojo, Perm Sec Take Over Expatriate Quota Approvals From Directors

In a prompt reaction to allegations of irregularities regarding expatriate quota approvals, the federal government has stripped directors from the Ministry of Interior of their roles as approval authorities, as the Minister, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, along with the Ministry’s permanent secretary, are now to oversee expatriate quota approvals moving forward.

This was contained in a statement signed by the permanent secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, who described the development as a swift and necessary shift from its initial administration, during which directors were responsible for approving quotas to enhance accountability.

She said, “This move follows recent allegations about the administration of expatriate quotas in the oil sector, which the Ministry of Interior is addressing seriously. February 12, 2025, circular indicated a review of the approval authority for expatriate quota and citizenship applications.

The statement partly reads, “The Ministry wishes to inform the public that these allegations are being taken seriously and that proactive steps to address the concerns have been taken.

“Consequently, in the new framework, all approvals are now domiciled with the Minister and the permanent secretary, a swift and necessary shift from its initial administration by directors.”

Ajani stated that the review aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in managing Expatriate Quota (EQ) and Citizenship applications.

She said it aims to address concerns of potential abuse and irregularities within the system. The statement noted that Minister Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, along with senior management officials and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), recently met with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Lagos on March 4, 2025, to discuss creating a conducive business environment while safeguarding the interests of Nigerians.

She said that following the meeting, the Minister announced the formation of a review committee comprising the Ministry of Interior, NIS, and representatives from NECA. The committee will evaluate the current expatriate quota policy and recommend necessary improvements.

“The Minister, again, wishes to assure the public that the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that the administration of expatriate quotas is fair, transparent, and in the best interests of Nigerians.

“Also, the Minister reiterated the commitment of the Ministry in working with stakeholders to address concerns and make improvements to policies and procedures towards the overall growth and development of Nigeria.” The statement added.