In a move to streamline travel and enhance security, the Nigerian government has set May 1, 2025, as the official start date for its newly designed electronic visa (e-Visa) system.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo disclosed the timeline on Wednesday in Abuja, where both ministries met to review immigration compliance and enforcement strategies.
The e-Visa, a fully digital alternative to traditional visa issuance, will allow visitors to apply for entry permits via an online platform.
Travelers will submit personal information, upload supporting documents, and receive their digital visas through email—bypassing embassy queues and manual processes.
Minister Tunji-Ojo noted that the system is being anchored by a modern visa approval center at the Nigerian Immigration Service headquarters.
He added that the center is staffed by trained personnel and connected to international crime databases, allowing for comprehensive screening of applicants.
“Our goal is to facilitate legal travel into Nigeria without compromising safety,” he said.
“We’re removing the middlemen and making the process transparent and accessible.”
The ministers further announced the formation of a joint implementation team, made up of officials from the NIS and NCAA, to ensure smooth rollout and alignment with existing aviation protocols.