Minister Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria's Visa-on-Arrival Policy Enhanced, Not Scrapped

Nigeria's Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has clarified that the country's Visa on Arrival (VOA) policy has not been scrapped but rather upgraded to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. This clarification comes after earlier reports suggested that the policy might be discontinued.

"The Visa-on-Arrival process is not being scrapped. Rather, it has been upgraded to improve efficiency and effectiveness," Tunji-Ojo stated during a meeting with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in Abuja. The upgrade aims to streamline the process, allowing travelers to apply online for short-stay visas with approvals granted within 24 to 48 hours. Once approved, the visa will be sent to the applicant's email, eliminating the need for a physical sticker upon arrival.

The new system includes pre-arrival clearance from Interpol and other background-check agencies in real-time, enhancing security measures. This development aligns with PEBEC's mission to simplify business processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles in Nigeria. According to a statement by Princess Zahrah Audu, Director-General of PEBEC, the changes are part of efforts to make procedures simpler and reduce red tape for businesses operating in Nigeria.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the upgrade supports Nigeria's efforts to improve its business environment and attract foreign investment. "With this upgrade, the country takes another step towards improving its business environment and attracting foreign investment. This upgrade builds upon the existing online approval system, streamlining the process and enabling travellers to receive their approvals ahead of time," he noted.

The clarification was necessary following earlier reports that the VOA policy might be discontinued due to inefficiencies. However, the government has now confirmed that the policy remains intact, albeit with significant improvements to enhance its functionality and security.