The Federal Government has processed over 14,000 visa applications through its new electronic visa system just six weeks after its launch.
The e-visa platform, which began operations on May 1, 2025, is part of a broader digital shift in Nigeria’s immigration system.
This update was shared by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a workshop held at the Nigeria Immigration Service headquarters in Abuja.
He explained that the e-visa initiative was introduced to improve access to the country while supporting economic growth and national security.
According to the minister, two other digital platforms are also expected to become active soon—the electronic Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (e-CERPAC) and the electronic Temporary Work Permit (e-TWP).
These platforms aim to block common loopholes used to evade immigration rules.
For instance, the Temporary Work Permit had often been misused to avoid the more regulated residence permit, but that is being addressed with the digital reforms.
Tunji-Ojo noted that despite minor technical issues, the system is being fine-tuned and has already reduced manual processes that once cost the government large sums yearly.
He mentioned that the elimination of manual archiving in passport applications alone has saved Nigeria around a billion Naira annually.
Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, also spoke about the new digital tools.
She said the e-visa system allows people to apply for visas online, removing the need to visit immigration offices physically.
She also noted that major airports are now equipped with e-Gates and are supported by a central Command and Control Centre.
In addition, the new system includes digital landing and exit cards, as well as an online channel for Temporary Work Permits.
These tools are designed to improve service delivery, increase transparency, and tighten border security through technology.
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