The Nigerian federal government is set to launch an electronic visa (e-visa) system on May 1, marking a significant step towards enhancing national security and streamlining the entry process for visitors. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, aims to digitize visa applications and automate the processing of landing and exit cards at international airports.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, emphasized the government's commitment to inter-ministerial cooperation during a joint briefing with Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Keyamo stated that the e-visa system will allow applicants to submit visa requests online and upload necessary documents electronically, eliminating the need for manual submissions. Additionally, the manual landing and exit cards will be replaced with a digital system, requiring visitors to pre-fill their information before traveling to Nigeria.

Tunji-Ojo elaborated on the specifics of the new system, stating that the e-visa application will be free and designed to simplify entry into Nigeria while bolstering national security. He also mentioned that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will oversee the management of landing and exit cards, which travelers must complete online before boarding. A central visa approval center, equipped with trained officers and integrated global criminal record checks, has already been established at the Immigration headquarters to ensure thorough background checks for all travelers entering Nigeria.

The government's decision to implement the e-visa system comes as part of a broader effort to modernize and secure Nigeria's borders. Tunji-Ojo had previously announced plans to cancel the visa-on-arrival policy, citing concerns about its sustainability and potential security risks. The new data-driven visa system aims to address these concerns by providing a more objective and transparent process for granting visas.

The initiative has garnered support from various agencies, including the Federal Airport Authority, Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which are working together to ensure its successful implementation. The government believes that the e-visa system will not only enhance border security but also promote tourism and investment by making it easier for legitimate travelers to enter the country.

Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, director general of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), has assured foreign investors that the government is addressing concerns raised by the decision to discontinue the visa-on-arrival policy. The new entry system is designed to provide a more efficient and secure process for all travelers, while also ensuring that Nigeria remains open for business.