ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria will implement a fully automated system for entry and exit cards for foreigners starting on Thursday, May 1, 2025, as part of efforts to enhance border security and streamline immigration processes, officials announced on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
The system will require foreigners to complete their landing and exit cards online before boarding flights to or from Nigeria.
This move is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to modernise its immigration procedures and bolster national security.
Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement during a joint briefing with the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the new process is free of charge and aimed solely at improving national security and the management of immigration data.
“We’ve always had the exit and landing cards, but in a manual format—you had to fill out a paper form. But Nigeria is a country of 230 million brilliant people, and we must lead the pack when it comes to technology,” said Tunji-Ojo.
“In view of that, we are automating the process, and everything will take effect from May 1, 2025.”
Under the new system, foreigners will be required to complete the necessary forms online before their flights and present the completed cards to airlines before being allowed to board.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will be responsible for regulating the airlines’ compliance with this new system.
Tunji-Ojo also announced that the implementation of the new system will be followed by the introduction of an e-visa process, which will make it easier for people to enter Nigeria while enhancing security measures.
The system will integrate with global criminal databases, such as Interpol, allowing for better background checks on visitors.
The initiative, which will be fully enforced from May 1, 2025, will also include a three-month amnesty period, allowing foreigners who have overstayed their visas or violated immigration laws to regularise their status without facing penalties.
“During the amnesty period, foreigners who have overstayed or breached immigration laws can come forward and regularise their status at immigration offices,” Tunji-Ojo said.
Keyamo explained the practical aspects of the new system, detailing how the automated entry and exit cards will be verified against passport numbers upon arrival and departure.
He warned that violations of the system, such as overstaying, could result in fines, visa cancellations, or a ban from entering Nigeria for up to 10 years.
This initiative builds on previous successful efforts, including the deployment of the Advanced Passenger Information System, which has already helped in the apprehension of individuals on Interpol’s red notice list.
Tunji-Ojo and Keyamo expressed confidence that the new system will improve Nigeria’s border security and align the country with global standards.
