ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the shooting of an Immigration officer by a Chinese businessman in Minna, Niger State, warning that the incident could escalate into a major diplomatic issue if left unaddressed.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, expressed his anger over the shooting during a stakeholders’ workshop on Nigeria’s new visa policy in Abuja on Thursday, March 27, 2025.
He called the act “unacceptable” and vowed that the government would not let it pass without serious consequences, stating that the Nigerian government would take up the matter at the diplomatic level.
According to the minister, the incident occurred when the Immigration officer, while conducting a routine check on a Chinese company in Minna, was shot by the security detail of the Chinese businessman.
The officer had reportedly asked questions related to work permits, which led to the attack.
“This is unacceptable. We are going to take it up with the Chinese government. No agent, no company, is above the law in Nigeria,” Tunji-Ojo said, adding that the government would not tolerate such actions.
“We will take it up with the businessman involved, and we have the power to withdraw their business operations in Nigeria.”
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that this was a matter of national pride and security, stating, “We will not allow anyone, regardless of their nationality, to come into Nigeria and treat our officials with disrespect.”
He also mentioned that the incident was a “slap” on the country and vowed to ensure it would not happen again.
The Nigerian government is preparing to take action against the Chinese authorities, with Tunji-Ojo warning that if the matter remains unresolved, the country would take severe steps, including potentially banning the business involved.
He added that such actions would not be tolerated, as similar behavior would never be accepted in China.
In addition to addressing the shooting incident, Tunji-Ojo also discussed ongoing immigration reforms in Nigeria.
He announced the discontinuation of the “Visa on Arrival” policy, replacing it with an e-visa system that will make it easier for legitimate travelers to enter Nigeria.
The new system will allow visa applicants to receive their visa within two days.
Moreover, the Minister announced a three-month grace period, starting from May 1 to August 1, 2025, for expatriates in Nigeria with overstayed visas to regularize their status.
After this period, the government will begin strict enforcement, including deportations and penalties for violations.
Tunji-Ojo made it clear that while Nigeria is open to international business and tourism, all expatriates and foreign nationals must respect Nigerian laws.
“We are simplifying the system to ensure legitimate individuals can come to Nigeria for business, education, tourism, and more,” he said.
“However, we will not accept abuse of our immigration policies.”
