Nigeria turns back eight foreign nationals over lack of valid Visas — Interior Minister

The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed that eight foreign nationals were denied entry into the country last week for attempting to enter without valid visas.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known during an interview with TVC News, monitored in Abuja on Sunday night. He reiterated that the Ministry would no longer permit foreigners to enter Nigeria without proper documentation.

Dr Tunji-Ojo revealed that he met with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) on Friday, during which new enforcement measures were discussed to tighten control over the movement of individuals in and out of the country.

“As I told the Airline Operators of Nigeria on Friday, the era of bringing people into Nigeria without visas is over. In the past fortnight, we have recorded multiple cases of individuals arriving without valid documentation, and this is completely unacceptable,” the Minister stated.

He further warned that airlines would be penalised for breaching immigration regulations by flying in passengers who do not possess valid travel permits.

“Airlines must be held accountable. You cannot travel to the United States or the United Kingdom without a visa, no airline will board you. Why should Nigeria be any different? This is not a dumping ground,” he added.

The Minister confirmed that several undocumented individuals had already been deported. “Just last week, we turned back over six, seven, eight people. Airlines that transport such passengers will be made to return them. A visa is the legal authorisation to enter Nigeria. Without it, entry will not be permitted.”

He emphasised the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing national security and enforcing immigration laws with renewed vigour.