KEY POINTS

• The country sent back eight unauthorized foreigners last week because of stricter enforcement.
• Tunji-Ojo, the Interior Minister, warned airlines against admitting passengers who don’t have valid visas.
• The government stated that it is dedicated to the safety of the nation and proper legal immigration.

Nigeria’s Federal Government has sent away eight foreigners who tried to cross the border without valid visas. The disclosure came from Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo when he spoke to TVC News on Sunday evening.

Firmer action to enforce immigration laws starts

It became clear from Tunji-Ojo’s words that the Ministry of Interior is cracking down on people who enter Nigeria without a proper visa. On Friday, the Airline Operators of Nigeria were reminded of this by the minister: bringing people into Nigeria with no visas is now in the past.

There had been cases in the past two weeks where people tried to come to the country without getting permission. “I cannot accept that,” he said.

Flights that commit wrongdoings will be punished

Furthermore the minister warned airlines that illegally allowing undocumented people to enter the country will result in strict penalties and the return of those people. Airlines should face their duties.

Visas are needed to enter the U.S. or the U.K. imagine why Nigeria should be treated as an exception? This is not supposed to be a place where unwanted things end up,” he continued.

According to Tunji-Ojo, all visa rules should be followed, since a visa provides the necessary authorization and right to enter Nigeria. You can’t enter without it, he made clear.

Nigeria is fully committed to protecting its nation enforcing valid visas as entry.

The minister also confirmed the government’s determination to protect the country, adding: “We’ve already sent several individuals back.” Six, seven and eight people were refused entry last week alone. Undocumented travellers will not be permitted in Nigeria.

Finally he made it clear that tightening rules for visa issuance is part of the country’s efforts to enforce immigration laws and follow the entry procedures of visitors.