By our Reporter
The Federal Government has announced plans to take strict action against irregular migrants in the country from August 1.
To allow for compliance, a three-month grace period will be given from May 1 to August 1, during which the new Expatriate Administration System will be implemented before enforcement begins.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister for Interior, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association.
Tunji-Ojo explained that there would be an immigration amnesty programme for three months to help migrants regularise their status.
He also warned companies obstructing the Nigeria Immigration Service from performing its duties, stating that the government will no longer tolerate such actions.
He said, “We agreed that the days when some companies irresponsibly block or avoid immigration laws are over. The private sector understands that, by law, the Immigration Service has a job to do, and they must be allowed to do it.
He also addressed fees for immigration services, noting that the current charges were not sustainable.
He stated, “We reviewed the fees because we know they need adjustment for certain citizenship and business activities. After negotiations, we have reached a middle ground, and the finalised breakdown will be officially released and signed by both the ministry and NECA.”
Regarding the new system, he added, “The revised fees and administration system will take effect from May 1, 2025. From that date, an immigration amnesty programme will run for three months—May to July—allowing migrants to regularise their status.
“But from August 1, there will be a strict crackdown on irregular migrants. We urge people to use this grace period to comply with immigration protocols.”
The new regulations will officially take effect on May 1, 2025 and enforcement will begin on August 1, 2025.
