The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has clarified that Nigeria’s Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) policy has been upgraded, not cancelled, as widely reported.
Tunji-Ojo made this statement on Tuesday after a closed-door meeting with a delegation from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in Abuja.
According to PEBEC Director-General Princess Zahrah Audu, the meeting aimed to address concerns and clarify the government’s stance on the VOA initiative.
Policy Upgrade Details
The minister explained that the new system introduces pre-arrival clearance through Interpol and criminal record checks, ensuring enhanced security measures.
“The Visa-on-Arrival process is not being scrapped but upgraded for greater efficiency. Travellers can still apply online for short-stay visas, with approvals granted within 24 to 48 hours,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
Approved visas will be emailed to applicants, eliminating the need for physical stickers upon arrival. This streamlined process aims to enhance Nigeria’s business environment and attract foreign investment.