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LAGOS, Nigeria - The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has advocated for the support of the Federal Government and various stakeholders, including the Organised Private Sector (OPS) of Nigeria, regarding the execution of expatriate reforms.
The Director-General of NECA, Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde, made this remark during a significant stakeholders’ dialogue event entitled “Sensitisation on the New Expatriate Administration and Other Reforms,” which took place at the NECA House Auditorium in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State.
Smatt-Oyerinde pointed out that the rising global nationalism and increased focus on homeland security highlight the necessity for Nigeria’s expatriate and immigration systems to be in line with international best practices.
He described the reforms currently being implemented by the ministry as very impactful and commendable, noting that the sensitisation session provides stakeholders the chance to obtain direct insights from the source.
“The reforms we are experiencing especially at our airports and immigration offices are noticeable and beneficial. These initiatives are streamlining procedures not just for expatriates but for Nigerians as well. We are grateful for the ministry’s choice to offer a three-month moratorium so that organizations can adjust to the new policies prior to full enforcement commencing on August 1, 2025,” he remarked.
In related news, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during his keynote address, emphasized the vital importance of regulatory alignment for all business activities in the country.
He announced that the government will be launching several initiatives under the ministry’s reform agenda starting from May 1, 2025, which will also come with a three-month moratorium to facilitate smooth adjustments and compliance.
Tunji-Ojo mentioned that the visa-on-arrival systems have been enhanced to prevent incidents of counterfeit visas and revealed that a Centralised Interior and Management System (CIMAS) has been introduced to improve coordination and transparency throughout all processes.
He detailed additional reforms that include the Electronic Certificate of Expatriate Quota and Residence Permit Application (E-CERPAC), which allows applicants to apply and make payments seamlessly via the Nigeria Immigration Service’s website, with virtual cards being sent directly to them through email.
Further significant reforms encompass enhancements to the expatriate understudy framework, Business Permits, Temporary Work Permits (TWP), the launch of comprehensive expatriate insurance covering the entire duration of stay, and the e-visa system, which ensures visa issuance within 48 hours.
