Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has announced that the federal government plans to implement an e-visa system and digital landing and exit cards to improve national security.
He made the announcement on Wednesday in Abuja during a meeting with a delegation led by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Keyamo explained that the e-visa system will allow applicants to submit their visa requests online and upload necessary documents electronically.
Additionally, the current manual landing and exit cards will be transformed into a digital format, requiring visitors to pre-fill their information before they arrive in Nigeria. “This initiative shows the government’s commitment to inter-ministerial cooperation, especially regarding the introduction of the e-visa system, Keyamo stated.
He mentioned that the interior minister would provide more details and that relevant agencies such as the Immigration Service, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) would support this initiative. Minister Tunji-Ojo indicated that the automation process will begin on May 1, to simplify entry into Nigeria while enhancing national security. The e-visa application will be free of charge.
He clarified that the NCAA would oversee the management of the online landing and exit cards that travelers will need to complete before boarding their flights. Furthermore, Tunji-Ojo stated that a centralized visa approval center is already operational at the immigration headquarters, staffed with trained officers, and equipped with integrated global criminal record checks.
This new system will enable better background checks for travelers entering Nigeria. We are keen on removing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring a clear and transparent visa process. Our objective is to facilitate travel to Nigeria while maintaining security. Both the Interior and Aviation ministries are vital to this effort, he emphasized.
(NAN)
