March 4, 2025 by and David Bolarinwa

Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has stated that the transformative reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration will protect the interest of Nigerians and yield economic benefits.

He spoke at a stakeholders meeting with the Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), NSCDC, and other stakeholders in Lagos on Tuesday March 4.

The Minister emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships in driving reforms that benefit both the private sector and the broader Nigerian economy.

Tunji-Ojo reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering a seamless working relationship between the private sector and the government to enhance economic growth.

He stated that the government’s primary goal is to implement policies that protect the interests of Nigerians while fostering a business-friendly environment. 

Tunji-Ojo stressed that achieving meaningful economic growth requires collaboration between the public and private sectors, as neither can achieve it alone.

He said: “We understand that the public sector cannot do it alone. We need strategic partnerships with NECA, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and other key stakeholders. 

“What is important to us is also important to them—the interest of our country. By working together, we can achieve what once seemed impossible,” he added.

During the meeting, the minister touched on ongoing reforms, particularly the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) reforms, expatriate quota administration, and business permits. 

He assured stakeholders that these reforms are aimed at making business operations smoother for Nigerians and foreign investors. 

The discussion also covered border control policies and their impact on businesses, with the minister reaffirming the government’s commitment to balancing security measures with economic needs.

Highlighting recent passport reforms, the minister stated that the government has introduced a contactless passport application system in Canada and Europe, which is now being expanded to Asia. 

He explained that this initiative eliminates unnecessary human contact, making it easier for Nigerians abroad to access passport services without extensive travel.

NECA Director-General, Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde, commended the government for its openness to engaging with the private sector. 

He emphasized that governance becomes more effective when visionary leaders drive it, noting that the meeting allowed for constructive and frank discussions on key issues affecting businesses. 

He welcomed the reforms being introduced, particularly those that align with private sector expectations.

Smatt-Oyerinde also expressed optimism about the swift implementation of the agreed-upon changes, emphasizing that certain reforms, including expatriate quota administration and pre-evaluation processes, must commence immediately. 

He noted that while a 90-day review period was initially suggested, stakeholders agreed that major reforms should begin within a week. 

He called for sustained engagement between the government and private sector leaders to ensure seamless policy implementation and compliance.

“We have engaged constructively today in a very frank manner, and I must commend this government for opening up the channels of engagement. 

“This is what governance should be engagement, collaboration, and problem-solving. 

“If ministers and agencies consistently engage like this, it will make governance more efficient and drive faster economic growth,” Oyerinde said.

The meeting concluded with assurances from the Ministry of Interior that all resolutions reached would be implemented in line with the federal government’s vision for economic transformation. 

Tunji-Ojo also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring policies that foster business growth while safeguarding the interests of Nigerians.